Muir Embraces Paris Gold Opportunity, Feeling She Has ‘Nothing to Lose’

Three years ago, the 31-year-old made a groundbreaking achievement by becoming the first Scot in over 30 years to earn an individual medal in track and field. She will kick off her participation in the Games on Tuesday, starting with the 1500m qualification rounds at the Stade de France, scheduled for 09:05 BST.

Muir shared her perspective with BBC Scotland, saying, “As the current Olympic silver medallist, I have no pressure to lose. The fact that I am still an Olympic silver medallist is a remarkable accomplishment in itself.”

Determined to win another medal, Muir acknowledged the heightened competition: “I’m running faster now, but the field has evolved dramatically since Tokyo. The number of world records set since then is astonishing.”

She added, “Being part of this competitive landscape is a privilege, although it means facing numerous formidable competitors, including myself. I remain optimistic about the possibilities.”

Earlier this summer, Muir shattered her own British 1500m record at the Paris Diamond League, achieving a time of three minutes 53.79 seconds, surpassing her previous mark that earned her silver in Tokyo.

While this success brings expectations and pressure, Muir now feels more comfortable with it than in the past.

She noted, “The expectation that you will do well is actually an honor, as it indicates people have faith in your abilities. I now view this more as encouragement.”

Reflecting on her earlier challenges with pressure, Muir remarked, “I struggled with it in the past, but I’ve learned that such pressure stems from others’ desire for you to succeed. Ultimately, the only pressure I feel is the one I impose on myself.”