Born with a genetic disorder called microdeletion syndrome, which causes a severe learning delay and problems with coordination, Simpson started swimming as a form of therapy to strengthen his body.

After winning multiple medals at the School Sport Australia Swimming Nationals in 2018, the young Queenslander set his sights on representing Australia as a Paralympic swimmer.

In 2023, he was named in the Para Flippers Development Squad and in 2024, was selected for the Madeira 2024 Para Swimming Open Championships.

He's now a two-time Paralympic gold medallist, having won the Men’s 100m Freestyle S8 and the Mixed 4x100m Freestyle Relay (34 points) during his debut at the Paris Games.

Simpson is now looking towards LA 2028 and hopes to inspire others with a disability, reminding them that anything is possible if you don’t give up.