From Pool to Pop Star: Champion Swimmer Alexa Leary Reinvents Herself with Bold Leap into Music…Read More…
In a move that has surprised fans and inspired countless others, former champion swimmer Alexa Leary is diving headfirst into a brand-new chapter of her life—this time, not in the water, but on the stage. Known for her resilience, fierce determination, and comeback from a near-fatal accident, Leary has now set her sights on the music industry, and early signs suggest she’s ready to make serious waves.
For years, Alexa Leary was a name associated with elite-level swimming. The Australian athlete captured the hearts of many with her exceptional performances in freestyle events and her tenacity after a life-threatening accident in 2021 left her with a traumatic brain injury. While many questioned whether she would ever walk, let alone swim competitively again, Leary defied all odds and returned to the pool—stronger, more determined, and more focused than ever.
But now, in 2025, Leary is proving that her drive extends far beyond the lanes. Trading in her swim cap for studio headphones and competition medals for microphones, the 23-year-old is embarking on a bold and unexpected journey as a pop artist.
A Bold Transformation
In a press conference held in Brisbane earlier this week, Leary officially announced her debut single, “Unbreakable,” a high-energy pop anthem inspired by her own journey of recovery and reinvention.
“This isn’t just a career shift—it’s a new identity,” Leary shared. “Music has always been a part of my life, even when I was swimming. After everything I went through, I realized that I had stories I wanted to share in a different way. Music allows me to connect emotionally with people who may never have seen me in the pool but can understand the struggle, the triumph, and the spirit behind the journey.”
Fans were treated to a preview of “Unbreakable” during a livestream performance on social media, where Leary showcased not only her vocal chops but also her confidence and stage presence—both of which were met with an outpouring of praise.
Behind the Scenes: From Rehab to Recording Studio
Alexa’s journey to music began during her rehabilitation. As she slowly regained motor function and speech, music therapy played a central role. Her therapists used rhythm and lyrics to help her relearn communication and improve cognitive coordination. As she progressed, Leary began writing her own lyrics—at first as journal entries, then as poems, and eventually as songs.
“Writing became my escape,” she said. “I’d write about my frustrations, my victories, my fear, and my hope. At one point, a therapist said, ‘You’ve got a songwriter’s soul,’ and that stuck with me.”
That encouragement led her to begin voice lessons and songwriting workshops in 2023. In late 2024, she was introduced to Brisbane-based music producer Tom Rafferty, who has worked with several emerging Australian pop acts. The chemistry was instant.
“Alexa brought raw honesty and incredible energy to the studio,” Rafferty said. “She’s not trying to copy anyone. She’s telling her story, and that authenticity is powerful.”
Reinvention and Empowerment
The release of “Unbreakable” marks the beginning of Leary’s debut EP, set to drop later this year. The project is described as a mix of anthemic pop, emotional ballads, and upbeat dance tracks—all reflecting different facets of her experience.
What sets Leary apart in an increasingly crowded industry is her resilience. Her music isn’t manufactured for trendiness—it’s grounded in lived experience. In a world that celebrates reinvention, Leary’s story stands as a powerful symbol of the human spirit’s capacity to evolve.
“She’s not just changing lanes,” said Australian entertainment reporter Jenna Moreland. “She’s building a whole new highway.”
Support from the Swimming World
While Leary’s new path may be a departure from the world of swimming, she hasn’t left her sporting family behind. Olympic swimmers, Paralympians, and former teammates have shown overwhelming support on social media.
Fellow Australian swimmer Ariarne Titmus posted, “Alexa continues to amaze and inspire. First, she showed us what true grit looks like in the pool. Now, she’s showing the world what it means to truly live without limits. Go, Alexa!”
Her former coach, Michael Bohl, echoed the sentiment: “Alexa always had rhythm—now she’s just swimming to a different beat.”
An Inspiration Beyond Sports and Music
Leary’s transformation resonates beyond sports and music. She’s become a beacon for anyone recovering from trauma, facing career shifts, or simply looking to rediscover purpose.
She has already hinted at launching a foundation aimed at integrating music therapy into physical rehabilitation for young people, particularly those recovering from brain injuries.
“This is more than just about me,” Leary emphasized. “If my journey can help even one person believe they’re not limited by their past or their pain, then every note I sing will be worth it.”
What’s Next?
Leary’s debut single “Unbreakable” is scheduled for digital release across all major platforms next Friday, with a music video premiere to follow on YouTube. She is also slated to perform at the Gold Coast Music Festival in September, marking her official public debut as a singer-songwriter.
As Alexa Leary reinvents herself from decorated swimmer to rising pop star, one thing is clear—her story is far from over. If anything, it’s just beginning, and this new chapter promises to be as inspiring, defiant, and unforgettable as the last.
From podiums to playlists, Alexa Leary is proving that true champions don’t just win races—they redefine what’s possible.
Leave a Reply