Purpose: To report on the factors associated with underperformance in a world-class male rower and the training intervention and supporting actions implemented to facilitate recovery for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Methods: Amale single sculler (age: 29 y, height: 185 cm, and mass: 83 kg) suffered from underperformance, characterized by ~5% to 7% drop in maximal and submaximal power-output indices, perceived severe fatigue, and emotional changes, likely associated with intensive training and competition, illness, environmental stress, and extensive international travel. A22-week training program was implemented to facilitate recovery and regain fitness. Results: Training frequency progressed slowly (6-17 sessions/wk). Volume remained relatively low throughout (~14 h/wk), with a strong emphasis on low-intensity training (95% below the individual lactate threshold). At week 13, a 9-week phase of low-volume (5%) high-intensity interval training was introduced: 4 weeks submaximal (4-6 × 3 min at 90% maximal aerobic power) and 5 weeks supramaximal (4-8 × 30 s at 120% maximal aerobic power or maximal effort) intervals for 3 sessions/week. This was coupled with direct training supervision, continuous program adjustment based on the athlete`s and coach`s technical observations, and careful attention to the athlete`s recovery, nutrition, sleep, and confidence. The athlete successfully regained fitness and qualified for the Olympic finals, where he placed ninth (0.57% from the bronze-medal time). Conclusions: A22-week training program including 95% low-intensity training and 5% high-intensity interval training, coupled with direct supervision and a focus on recovery, nutrition, sleep, and confidence, successfully brought the athlete from underperformance to Olympic final.
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