"It happened over a period of three years. I can't remember how many times. We're talking about small incidents to near-rape, sexual abuse, whatever you want to call it," the 42-year-old said in the "Happy Place" podcast. The Briton first reported the abuse he suffered at the hands of a coach last year.
Now the 2012 Tour winner went into further detail about the experiences he had from the age of twelve. "My biggest shame was that a man had done this to me. I couldn't comprehend this abnormality, especially at the age of 13," said Wiggins. "From that moment on, I pretended it hadn't happened and dedicated my life to cycling as a distraction." Back then, he was unable to confide in anyone. When he ended his cycling career at the age of 36, the memories came flooding back.
Wiggins is now finished with cycling and no longer works as a TV pundit. "I would be nothing without cycling, it has given me everything. But at the same time, it has taken almost everything from me," said the Olympic champion.
"I think all my success comes from unhappiness and running away from the problems in my life. I guess that's the difference between being good at something and being great at something. I think greatness comes from unhappiness." Today, he feels like a freer person who no longer has to chase after anything.
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