Daniel Wiffen achieved a monumental victory at the 2024 World Championships by securing gold in both the 800m and 1500m freestyle categories, making him the first male swimmer from Ireland to gain this title. As he gears up to compete in the summer Olympics in Paris, he will enjoy the backing and sponsorship of Enfer Medical for the rest of the year.
When asked about his spending habits, Daniel admits to being a balanced spender and saver. He sets aside money for essentials whilst also allocating funds for necessities that affect his performance in swimming. Notably, he tends to save more during the colder months.
On the topic of finding value for money, Daniel insists on exploring various deals before making a purchase. One such example is his recent acquisition of compression leggings for €800, following an initial price of €1000.
Reflecting on his priciest purchase, the Irish swimmer reveals it’s his car, a black Mercedes GLC Coupe that he uses to attend training sessions and competitions. He maintains the car in impeccable condition, a trait that his family often finds irksome.
As for shopping during the Covid-19 restrictions, Daniel conveys he didn’t shop much as he resided with his parents, with his mother handling groceries. His personal purchases, however, were mainly done online.
Even though Daniel doesn’t usually negotiate prices, he was part of a friendly competition during his training camp in Turkey, which involved buying each other outfits from the local market and hence, a fair amount of haggling.
In light of the Covid-19 pandemic, Daniel’s purchase habits underwent changes, such as increased buying of hand sanitiser and masks. Looking back now, he considers these purchases a bit superfluous given the majority of his time is spent in chlorinated water.
And on the question of shares, Daniel remained quiet.
Indeed, I participate in the stock market and securities investments. I am currently a computer science scholar at Loughborough University, and part of my curriculum involves learning about cryptocurrencies and the stock market to understand the financial landscape as it pertains to my degree. Personally, I find it quite compelling and it makes sense to me why a lot of individuals are drawn into this sphere.
As to the question of cash or card, I’d opt for card or even Apple Pay via my smartphone.
To recall the most recent purchase I’ve made, it was a two-and-a-half-week stay at the Gloria Sports Arena located in Antalya, Turkey. I can confidently say that it was money well spent as it offered the perfect setting to heighten my chances of standing on the podium in Paris.
When asked about financial losses, exchange rates are a continuous source of losses for me.
As for gambling, it’s not my forte. I’ve never visited Las Vegas, however, I have fond memories of placing a bet on a horse at Down Royal, Lisburn, on Boxing Day. I did win and that event marked my farewell to the world of gambling on a high note!
Is monetary wealth significant for me? Although I don’t base my entire life on it, it’s essential in facilitating my aspirations and dreams, which is to be recognised as the world’s best swimmer.
At the moment, I possess one €20 bill and one £20 note in my wallet. I have a habit of keeping both currencies at hand.
This conversation was held with Tony Clayton-Lea.