Scottish swimmer Katie Shanahan turned down an offer to appear on Love Island last year, choosing instead to concentrate on her training, and went on to win silver in the 200m breaststroke on the opening night of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. The 22-year-old, born in Glasgow and based at the Tollcross swimming centre, said she and English swimmer Abbie Wood were both approached by producers but decided competing had to take priority.

Shanahan, a self-described lifelong fan of the show who has watched every series, said she has not ruled out appearing in future. Love Island, whose 2026 series concluded earlier this week, has also approached other athletes, including Northern Ireland boxers Jon McConnell and Kaci Rock, who withdrew from the process to focus on the Games. Shanahan, inspired as a child by Hannah Miley's performance at the 2014 Commonwealth Games, said she hopes her silver medal will similarly inspire a new generation of young swimmers, and described being touched by the support she has received since her win.