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In a podcast by The Straits Times (ST), former Singapore athletes Tao Li and David Lim debated whether former Olympic champion Joseph Schooling should consider hanging up his goggles and call it a day.

Li and Lim, both former Singapore swimmers, were discussing about Schooling's announcement of his withdrawal from the upcoming SEA Games in May 2023.

When podcast host Deepanraj Ganesan asked if Schooling could return for Asian Games 2023 in September, Li answered: "If I were him, I would choose to retire".

"To be honest, I don't think that he will add some levels back to get to the Asian Games and win a gold."

Deepanraj asked if "it was over" for Schooling or if the Olympic gold medalist could make a comeback, Lim said due to Schooling's current circumstances on training limits and time off, he does not think Schooling is going to make a comeback.

"I think retirement may be a good option," Lim stated.

Elaborating more if a comeback for Schooling is "out of the question", Li shared that "if we are asking for another gold medal or another Olympic Games, it is too much for him".

Mothership reached out to Schooling for any comments in response to the podcast.

Schooling's publicist replied that they had no comments.

Pulled out of the 2023 SEA Games

In a statement on Mar. 1 2023, the swimmer said:

"After careful consideration with my team, I have decided to pull out of the SEA Games.

This was not an easy decision, but I am currently not at the level at which I hold myself to perform. Ultimately, my country comes first before individual accolades.

I have decided to give my spot to team mates who have been getting themselves ready and considered for selection while I cheer from home and focus on my Navy duties."

This is the first time Schooling will not represent Singapore at the SEA Games since his debut in 2011.

Top photos via Joseph Schooling's Facebook