Olympic champion Duncan Scott 'has always been special'

The coach of Olympic hero Duncan Scott said he has “always been special” as he touted the swimmer as one of Scotland’s greatest-ever athletes.

Alloa-born Scott won his fourth medal of the Tokyo Games in the early hours of Sunday, claiming silver in the 4×100m medley relay – adding to his tally of two silvers and one gold so far at the games.

The tally is the highest by any British athlete at a single Olympics.

Steve Tigg, head performance swim coach at Stirling University – where Scott trains, said: “Duncan has always been special – his success hasn’t been the result of just a few years’ work.

“All of life’s experiences – good or bad – prepare us to face our biggest challenges.

“Having been part of Duncan’s journey for 16 years, this meet was always a key goal on the journey.

“His level of preparation and commitment to try and achieve his goals was nothing short of inspiring.

“Although perhaps not all of the dreams were fulfilled, it’s fitting that his ambition, desire and relentless competitive nature has won him the accolade of Team GB’s most-decorated athlete at an Olympics.

“Duncan is one of Scotland’s all-time best athletes across all sports – and he won’t stop here with two or three more Olympics left in him. I hope he enjoys all the praise and adulation he duly deserves.”

Stirling University’s team has been at the forefront of Team GB’s swimmers, with Kathleen Dawson also bringing home another gold in the women’s 4×100m medley relay, taking Stirling’s tally to five.

Tigg, who is also in Tokyo with the team, added: “It has been a fast-paced nine days here in Tokyo – and to be part of the best-ever Team GB swimming performance at an Olympics is a real privilege.

“I know the hard work that has gone on – in incredibly challenging times – to get to this point, both in Stirling and across the wider British swimming community.

“The Stirling University performances have been excellent – we’re all extremely proud of their efforts throughout this meet.

“To have two of our swimmers return Olympic champions is outstanding – and we are absolutely delighted with the five medals.”