Fellow athletes Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill and Adam Peaty are among those who have sent messages of support to Rebecca Adlington after she announced she has had a miscarriage.
The double Olympic gold medallist swimmer and sports pundit said her family were “truly heartbroken” after learning the news when she went for a routine pregnancy scan at 20 weeks.
In a post to Instagram on Sunday, the 34-year-old thanked the Wythenshawe hospital staff for their care and her husband Andrew Parsons for his “selfless support, love and help”.
Adlington wrote: “I don’t really have the words right now but unfortunately we went for our 20 week scan this week and they found no heartbeat.
“I gave birth to our angel, Harper on Friday at 7pm. We held her, and had time with her. We will forever love her and remember her always.”
The former swimmer added: “I don’t have the strength or words right now and don’t feel ready to share this news. However, I can’t pretend to be ok or fake a smile.
“I can’t have people ask me how pregnancy is or when I am due as I still look pregnant. I don’t have the strength to tell this news individually.
“We are so truly heartbroken. Our beautiful girl. Rest in peace.”
Friends and famous faces were among those sending their condolences including former track athlete Dame Jessica who wrote: “Oh Becky I’m sending you and your family so much love. I’m so sorry xxxx.”
Olympic swimming champion Peaty said, “I’m so sorry to hear this, my prayers are with you all”, while former Olympic long jump champion Greg Rutherford added: “Sending love to you. So sorry to read this Becky xx.”
Fellow pundit Gabby Logan wrote, “Sending you and all the family love, so sorry for what you are going through x”, and news and sports presenter Dan Walker said: “Becky, I know no words will ease the pain… my entire heart is with you all.”
Adlington had announced her pregnancy on October 1.
She previously revealed a miscarriage in August 2022 which was discovered during her 12-week scan and required emergency surgery.
Adlington wrote on Instagram at the time: “It’s such a devastating time but important in times like these we remember we aren’t alone and have so much support.”
She also said that she was treated for sepsis, a kidney infection and a fever while in hospital but was “on the mend”.
“Long way to go but I’m in the right place,” she also wrote. “Once I’m able to leave hospital I’m extremely grateful I get to go home and give my 2 little ones the best hugs!”
Adlington has one son, Albie, with Parsons, who she married two years ago.
Her daughter, Summer, was born during her marriage to Harry Needs.
She has appeared on reality TV shows including Celebrity MasterChef, I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of here! and The Jump.
