‘Turbulent Times’: Jessica Fox on the Brink of Burnout Following Potential Gold Rush at Paris 2024

Since returning with two gold medals from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Jessica Fox’s calendar has been completely packed.

After solidifying her status as the most accomplished Olympic paddler of all time—both male and female—by clinching titles in the C1 and K1 canoe slalom events, Fox has been exploring various activities away from the thrills of the rapids.

Her ventures include walking the runway for L’Oréal Paris, joining Nine as a sports presenter, plus participating in magazine photo shoots, attending award ceremonies, and making special guest appearances—Fox is certainly in high demand.

Alongside this whirlwind of activities, she has been attempting to balance her training schedule.

“It’s been extraordinary and a bit frenetic, like a whirlwind,” Fox explained to Paddle Australia.

“I’ve been enjoying exploring new opportunities and challenges while also trying different things, and now I’m getting back into training.”

Fox concluded her competitive season with a strong performance at the World Cup Final in Spain this past September before returning home at the age of 30.

Instead of taking a break, Fox immersed herself in sponsorship deals and self-promotion, working tirelessly for two solid months.

“Christmas Day was lovely. I finally had a day off,” she chuckled.

“In November and December, I really neared burnout,” she admitted. “I was on a lot of flights and travelling to different states for various commitments. So, I cherished the opportunity to wind down over Christmas and recharge. Now, as we enter the new year, I’m excited for the fresh challenges that await.”

Fox will compete on her home course for the first time since the Paris Games at this weekend’s 2025 Canoe Slalom Oceania Championships.

This event not only marks the commencement of the 2025 canoe slalom season but is also crucial as it serves as a selection opportunity for athletes competing on the World Cup circuit and at the upcoming ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships hosted in Australia.

The Oceania Championships stand as a pivotal event in the 2025 calendar, simultaneously serving as a selection trial for the 2025 Australian Senior team that will compete in the World Cup circuit and the ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships scheduled in Australia in early October 2025.

Although Fox is uncertain of her performance level due to her recent preparations, the opportunity to pursue gold at a home World Championships in October is a constant source of motivation.

“Getting back in the boat after six months off is challenging,” she acknowledged. “It’s the perfect incentive to stay motivated following the Games and a great way to kickstart this new Olympiad.”