Exercising with diabetes can be challenging at times, but it’s no reason to believe you can’t achieve extraordinary results.
If you’re living with type 1 diabetes, exercise can be a complex business. Pushing your limits physically can be tricky when you have to worry about managing your blood glucose levels. But, whatever your chosen sport, living with type 1 needn’t stop you from being top of your game.
Take a look at some Australian and world athletes living with diabetes.
Alex Zverev – tennis superstar
Currently competing in the Australian Open, Germany’s Alex Zverev has proven that type one diabetes is no barrier to success. Diagnosed at age three, Zverev was told he might never achieve peak fitness, yet he went on to become a world-class tennis player.
Ranked world number two, Zverev has now reached the Australian Open semifinals for the third time. Despite keeping his diagnosis private until 2022, he now embraces his condition, launching a charity to help children with diabetes achieve their dreams.
On the court, Zverev regularly checks his blood glucose levels and administers insulin using a pen he keeps in his kit bag. His Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) allows him to manage his condition during matches.
Sarah Klau – netball champion
Sarah Klau, a defender for the Sydney Swifts and Australian Diamonds, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in her early twenties after a routine medical checkup revealed slightly elevated glucose levels.
Determined to continue her professional netball career, Klau leaned on medical advice, research and confidence-building to manage her diabetes. She eats an hour before games, monitors her glucose while warming up and uses a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to stay on track during matches. Klau credits technology with giving her the freedom to focus on her performance.
Lara McSpadden – basketball high-flyer
Lara McSpadden, who plays for the Sydney Flames has excelled despite being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at seven. Representing Australia in the under-17 World Championships at 15, Lara chose to stay in Australia rather than pursue college basketball in the US, ensuring access to her support network.
She carefully manages her glucose levels, crediting the Dexcom G6 for helping her perform safely. Lara embraces her role as a mentor, inspiring young fans with diabetes to pursue their dreams. You can read more about Lara’s success here.
Paddy McCartin – AFL star
Former Sydney Swans player Paddy McCartin has managed type 1 diabetes since his diagnosis at age eight. Initially needing four insulin injections daily and frequent blood glucose checks, McCartin now uses an insulin pump and monitors his levels through an app on his phone — sometimes checking up to 13 times a day.
McCartin uses his platform to educate others, showing that a positive plan and transparency with healthcare professionals are key to balancing sport and diabetes. Through his mentoring program, Helping Hands, he supports people living with diabetes and other challenges and encourages them to pursue their goals.
Sophie Devine – cricket big-hitter
Sophie Devine, captain of the Perth Scorchers, has achieved remarkable international success despite living with type 1 diabetes. Diagnosed at a young age, she has managed her condition meticulously throughout her career. Devine is among several cricketers, including Wasim Akram and Craig McMillan, who have excelled at the international level while managing diabetes.
Her dedication and resilience serve as an inspiration to athletes worldwide, demonstrating that with proper management, diabetes does not impede reaching the pinnacle of sport.
Christian Mansell – grand prix speedster
Christian Mansell, an Australian racing driver born on 9 February 2005 in Maitland, New South Wales, has risen through the motorsport ranks despite living with type 1 diabetes. Set to compete in the 2025 FIA Formula 2 Championship for Rodin, Mansell previously raced in the FIA Formula 3 Championship from 2022 to 2024, achieving a fifth-place finish in the 2024 season with ART Grand Prix.
Although car racing might not seem all that athletic, it can still be an endurance sport that presents challenges for people living with type 1. Mansell uses his platform to demonstrate that a diabetes diagnosis is not a setback, aiming to inspire children with the condition.
He manages his diabetes by wearing a CGM on his hip, ensuring he can safely participate in high-speed racing.
Inspiration for all
These athletes show that living with diabetes doesn’t mean limiting your ambitions. With the right tools, technology and mindset, extraordinary achievements are possible. Whether it’s tennis, netball or AFL, diabetes doesn’t define what you can accomplish.
Key Takeaway: With determination, support and proper management, anyone can participate in and succeed in sport — even with the challenges of diabetes.
Join us for Type 1 TACTICS, a three-hour group session tailor-made to equip you with the skills and strategies to manage your blood glucose levels effectively during physical activity!
Our next session is 3 Feb in North Beach: https://www.trybooking.com/CVFPF
West Australians can call our Diabetes WA Helpline for free on 1300 001 880. If you’re living in regional WA, you also have free access to our Diabetes WA Telehealth Service.
