At 21 years old, Sophie McAfee is already making waves in the world of diving. Standing at 5’8″, the Los Angeles-based athlete is part of Team USA and a proud member of Purdue University’s Diving Team.
But beyond her height and physical prowess, McAfee is a dedicated, multifaceted individual who has spent most of her life working toward excellence in her sport.
Her story is one of relentless hard work and a personal commitment to balance life’s demands with joy and creativity.
Born and raised in San Marino, California, McAfee began diving at the age of 7, a decision that would set her on the path to competing at national and international levels.
By the time she was 8, she had already qualified for her first junior nationals, and just a few years later, at 12, she made her debut at the senior nationals.
Her ascent in the diving world continued, leading to notable performances at events like the World Junior Championships in Kyiv in 2018, where she competed across multiple categories, including the 10m Platform Synchro and the 1m Springboard. McAfee’s favorite dive is the 305C, which she executes on both the 3-meter and 10-meter platforms, a testament to her precision and athletic versatility.
Sophie’s parents, Kristin and Preston McAfee, have been unwavering in their support, alongside her older sister, Ellie, who has been an anchor in her journey.
For Sophie, diving is a rigorous daily commitment—she trains between 2 1/2 to 5 hours a day, six days a week. The dedication required to compete at this level is intense, but for Sophie, the rewards of diving extend beyond competitions and accolades.
If you want to fly, you have to give up the stuff that weighs you down
Outside of the pool, McAfee’s personality shines. She’s a passionate baker and runs a food Instagram dedicated to her love of baking, frequently whipping up creative dishes that give her a break from her demanding training routine.
Music is also a constant companion for McAfee, who has compiled an impressive 63 Spotify playlists to fit every mood she experiences. She often listens to Imagine Dragons between dives, finding motivation in their lyrics. “Their songs have a lot of motivational themes,” McAfee has shared, adding that music is an essential part of her preparation and focus.
McAfee’s drive, however, isn’t limited to her athletic ambitions. A student at Purdue University, she balances her academic pursuits with her athletic career, a feat that requires tremendous discipline.
Her favorite book, “Born a Crime” by Trevor Noah, reflects her deep curiosity and appreciation for storytelling beyond her sport. Her favorite food, chocolate chip pancakes, highlights a playful side that contrasts with her intense focus in the diving pool.
Sophie McAfee’s journey from a young prodigy in San Marino to a rising star in Team USA showcases her resilience and passion.
Her personality—rooted in both fierce dedication and the pursuit of personal joy—has become an integral part of what makes her stand out. As she continues to train and compete at an elite level, McAfee is not just chasing medals but is also “chasing sunshine,” as her social media suggests, always finding ways to embrace life’s simple pleasures while excelling in her sport.
Her story is a reflection of the balance between hard work and personal fulfillment, showing that even in the most demanding careers, there is room for the things that make life bright. With her eyes set on future competitions, McAfee’s journey is only just beginning, and her fans, family, and teammates are eager to see where her path will take her next.