Cyclist Bradley Wiggins unveils fresh memoir: His most candid and intimate work thus far
Let's Peel Back the Layers with Bradley Wiggins: A Raw, Honest, and Unconventional Autobiography
Over a decade after his illustrious career as a pro cyclist, Bradley Wiggins, a living legend with a myriad of accolades such as the Tour de France and five Olympic gold medals, is laying it all bare in his latest magnum opus, 'The Chain'. He has likened the book to "the most authentic and intimate I've ever penned".
The past six months have been a whirlwind for Wiggins as he poured his heart out for this captivating narrative. In an Instagram post, he described 'The Chain' as "the tale of finding harmony within myself".
"Once upon a time, the world knew me as Bradley Wiggins, the Brit who dominated the bike tracks," he pens in the book teaser. "But beneath the mask of the golden boy, 'Wiggo', the man to beat, I was grappling with my true self."
The Tour de France Champion's Post-Racing Life
Since his retirement in 2016, Wiggins' life has traversed a rollercoaster ride of emotional terrain. He has grappled with addiction, teetered on the brink of bankruptcy, and disclosed alleged sexual abuse dating back to his formative years. Without the shield of cycling and unresolved trauma, Wiggins plunged into what he terms as "extremely treacherous" circumstances.
In an exclusive press event, he confessed, "I was doing mountains of cocaine," during a candid moment, echoing our website. "I had a shaky grasp on reality. My kids were on the verge of sending me to rehab. That's something I've never shared before."
Now, nearing a year abstinent, Wiggins is recounting his tumultuous journey of self-discovery through this gripping autobiography as he forges a new connection with the sport that has been his life's raison d'être.
"I've accepted in the last year that no matter how hard I resist, I am a cyclist, cycling is my world, and it will always be part of me," Wiggins shares.
"I used to think I was causing myself more pain by trying to shrug it off. Every encounter with someone always led to, 'Oh, you're that cyclist', so it'll never leave me, ever."
"The Story of a Man Finding Himself"
Wiggins' newest book, 'The Chain', is set for release on October 25, and preorders are live now, courtesy of Harper Collins. This heavy-hitting story will shed light on the realities of life after the limelight and the triumphs and tribulations that often follow.
Bonus Insights
- Addiction's Uncompromising Grip: Wiggins has revealed his battle with cocaine addiction, succumbing to the dependency's unrelenting clutches during his post-retirement phase. He attributes this self-destructive behavior to unresolved emotional pain and the identity crisis that ensued when he stepped away from cycling. Wiggins has since found solace in recovery, with unexpected sources of encouragement from figures like Lance Armstrong.*
- Breach of Financial Stability: Wiggins has recounted grappling with financial instability, leading him to the brink of bankruptcy. His economic hardships worsened due to his addiction and personal turmoil faced during this period.*
- Alleged Past Trauma: Wiggins has divulged distressing experiences involving sexual abuse during his teenage years. This past trauma has been an essential component of his narrative, contributing to his broader personal struggles and journey towards healing.*
- Transitioning Out of Competitive Sports: Retirement from professional sports can be a crucible for athletes like Wiggins. They often struggle with feelings of reduced purpose, loneliness, and occasionally, substance abuse as a coping mechanism. Wiggins' tale serves as an illustration of the complexities retired athletes may encounter and the paramount importance of seeking support and guidance during the transition period.*
"Bradley Wiggins' latest book, 'The Chain', is not just about his post-racing life as a Tour de France Champion, but also a personal journey towards self-discovery and growth in areas not traditionally associated with sports, such as addiction, personal tragedies, and emotional healing."
"Through 'The Chain', readers will gain insights into Wiggins' attempt at finding balance and harmony, delving into topics like self-development, personal growth, and even sports, as he navigates his new life beyond the bike tracks."
