Rowing
NdS AMBASSADOR - CHRIS MORGAN .
Introduction
We’re proud to welcome Chris Morgan—Olympic medallist, world champion, and advocate for inclusion—as a Neurodiverse Sport Ambassador. Diagnosed as Autistic, Chris brings not only elite-level sporting experience but also a deep commitment to changing the way we communicate, compete, and connect in sport.
Despite pushing his body to the limit across three Olympic Games and multiple World Championships, Chris is open about thriving in environments that are calm, clear, and kind—proving that elite performance doesn’t have to come with high-pressure intensity. Now a keen cyclist and systems-thinker, Chris uses his journey to support others, challenging outdated norms and helping build sport spaces where everyone has room to grow.
Scroll down to learn more about Chris or ask him a question.
Sport
➔ “I competed in rowing and am now a keen cyclist.”
Neurodiversity
➔ “I’m diagnosed autistic.”
What’s the highest level you’ve competed?
➔ “I’ve competed in three Olympic Games”
➔ Beijing 2008 – Men's Quad Sculls, finished 4th
➔ London 2012 – Men's Quad Sculls, won Bronze Medal
➔ Rio 2016 – Men's Double Sculls (with David Watts), finished 7th overall
➔ “I’ve also won two World Championship titles”
➔ 2010 – Gold Medal, Coxed Pair
➔ 2011 – Gold Medal, Men's Quad Sculls
What’s your proudest sporting achievement?
“Not a medal or a title—my proudest achievement is growing into someone I am proud of.”
Interests & Fun Facts
“I’m an Olympic medallist who pushed my body to its limits in elite sport—but I don’t thrive in aggressive or high-pressure environments.
I prefer clear, kind, and direct communication.
It might seem paradoxical, but high performance doesn’t have to come with high-intensity interactions—I’ve learned that creating space for reflection and calm actually brings out the best in me and others.”
Bio
➔ About Me
“Hi, I’m Chris Morgan, an Australian Olympic medallist and world champion rower, now proudly committed to improving inclusion in sport and life more broadly. I didn’t pursue elite sport until my 20s—rowing started, almost accidentally, with a competition where the fastest time on a rowing machine won a carton of beer!
What began as a casual challenge quickly became a life-shaping experience. Sport gave me a chance to push myself, build resilience, and grow into the best version of myself.”
➔ Neurodiversity & Celebration
“Now, I’m passionate about using that journey to support others—optimising systems, solving problems, and challenging outdated norms. As someone with Autism Spectrum Disorder (or condition), I believe direct and respectful communication is key, and I thrive in environments where curiosity and compassion are valued over assumptions.”
“I’m here to be part of a wider change—one that celebrates difference and builds stronger, more inclusive spaces for all.”
➔ Socials & Support
“Follow me on LinkedIn.”
