Gold medal-winning swimmer Isaac Cooper has resigned from his position in Australian swimming’s leadership group following a night of drinking instead of supporting his teammates at the Commonwealth Games.

The 22-year-old missed the final competition night in Glasgow and the team's wrap-up meeting, as he was seen drinking while his teammates competed. According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Swimming Australia stated, “Isaac did not attend the final night of the swimming competition or final team meeting in Glasgow which is in conflict with team expectations.” As a result, he voluntarily stepped down from the athlete leadership group.

This incident tarnishes the conclusion of the Commonwealth Games for the team, which had achieved a record 37 gold medals.

Cooper, a prominent figure in Australian swimming, won gold in the 50m at the 2024 World Championships in Doha and has represented Australia in two Olympics. He had been a key figure in promoting the Commonwealth Games, notably participating in the King’s Baton Relay at the Great Barrier Reef.

Previously, Cooper expressed pride in being named to the leadership group after facing challenges four years ago when he was sent home from a swim camp before the 2022 Commonwealth Games due to “wellbeing challenges, including the use of medication.” This prior indiscretion cost him the chance to compete for gold.

During the Glasgow Games, Cooper withdrew from the 100m final after qualifying eighth and swam in the heats for the 4x100 medley relay, where he earned a gold medal after his teammates won the final. He also finished sixth in the 50m backstroke final.

Meanwhile, Henry Allan has emerged as a leading backstroker, finishing fifth in the 50m, just ahead of Cooper, and also placing fifth in the 100m and 200m events, showcasing his potential.

Despite the controversy, Cooper is still scheduled to compete for Australia at the Pan Pacific Championships in California later this month. Swimming Australia expressed optimism, stating, “We look forward to watching Isaac compete at the Pan Pacific Championships.”