Tom Daley Wants You in His Swimwear

Tom Daley is once again turning poolside thirst into high art. The beloved British diver, Olympic gold medalist, and queer icon just launched a daring new swimwear collab with Adidas, and let’s just say… the suits are serving. But if you’re stateside and ready to slip into something skimpier—you’re out of luck. For now, at least.

On July 17, Daley debuted a sultry line of men’s speedos and bikinis through Adidas UK, pushing boundaries and waistlines alike. The collection, which radiates confidence and unapologetic body-positivity, features bold cuts and vibrant designs—perfect for a BRAT summer. But many of Daley’s U.S. fans were quick to notice: the most revealing pieces aren’t available in the U.S. store. Cue the collective gay gasp.

This launch rides the wave of a hot Daley summer. Just weeks earlier, he went viral for posting a now-iconic clip of him and Team GB divers performing a cheeky, Speedo-chic routine to Charli XCX’s “Apple,” closing out the 2024 Paris Olympics with some flair and flesh. He captioned it simply: “BRAT Summer Olympics.” The look? Daring. The vibe? Pure queer joy. The comments? On fire.

Fans flocked to his Instagram to show love for the looks and, more importantly, ask where to buy. But alas, only Adidas’ UK site carries the full range: adjustable-strap suits, two-piece bikinis, 5-inch shorts, and yes, that itty-bitty men’s bikini. For Americans? A more conservative selection—and a whole lot of disappointment. “We need the speedo in the US!” one fan begged in his comments.

That frustration has reignited a broader conversation: why is the U.S. still squeamish about letting men show skin, especially when queer athletes like Daley are leading the charge? Europe seems more than ready to embrace the bikini brief for all genders, but American retailers haven’t caught up. It’s not just about style—it’s about visibility, identity, and pushing back on outdated norms.

For Daley, this collection is personal. He’s not just the designer—he’s the face, the body, and the message. And that message runs deeper than a deep-V bikini line. Daley has opened up about his own complex relationship with body image, especially post-retirement. “I’ve always had such horrible body issues going through my diving career. Now I’m not an athlete that trains six hours a day, I especially hate it,” he told The Times.

He also pointed to the toxic influence of early social media and hyper-filtered gay aesthetics, explaining how they shaped his own self-image: “Growing up in the early days of social media and gay culture, where unrealistic standards often prevail.” But his goal now? “A healthy relationship with my body.” His honesty has struck a chord in a queer community where body anxiety is far too common—and where representation like his can help reshape the conversation.

Daley’s new line is more than a fashion collab. It’s a statement of queer liberation, confidence, and comfort in your own skin. Even if U.S. fans can’t buy the skimpiest pieces (yet), the ripple effect of this campaign is undeniable.

So until Adidas brings the full drop across the pond, you can find us on Daley’s Instagram—drooling, cheering, and hoping our package ships internationally next time.