MOSCOW, Oct 9: Russian high jumper Ivan Ukhov says kicking a drinking habit has not only changed his life but helped him achieve his childhood dream of becoming an Olympic champion.

The 26-year-old, who won gold in London with a leap of 2.38 metres and now has more lofty goals for his career, does not like to talk about the past nor discuss his previous escapades — only saying that he is “completely reformed now.”

“I just want to concentrate on my future, not go back to my old life. It’s in the past,” he said in an interview.

Ukhov, who now prides himself on being a devoted husband and loving father, even chopped off his shaggy hair following his gold-medal performance to symbolise his changed lifestyle.

Since his August triumph, the Russian has become a media darling at home.

“Of course, winning in Rio in 2016 is one of my big goals,” said Ukhov, who has recorded four of the world’s best six jumps this year while his personal best of 2.40 was achieved in 2009.—Reuters