Olympic Swimmer Ryan Lochte Admits Emotional Challenges in Marriage and Shares Reasons Behind Selling Three Gold Medals in the United States

Ryan Lochte, the Olympic swimming superstar, has recently taken fans behind the scenes of his personal life, revealing shocking details about his divorce from Kayla Rae Reid and the controversial decision to sell some of his Olympic medals.

The 12-time medalist, known for both his dominance in the pool and high-profile scandals, is now sharing a side of himself rarely seen in public.

Divorce Confirmation Sparks Public Attention

Earlier this year, Lochte’s private life became tabloid fodder when Reid confirmed she had filed for divorce after seven years of marriage.

At the time, Reid described the split as “painful,” while Lochte expressed gratitude for the life they had shared together.

The couple’s separation quickly became a topic of intense media scrutiny.

Lochte Explains Selling His Medals

Adding fuel to the public conversation, Lochte recently addressed the decision to sell some of his gold medals.

Speaking on social media, he admitted that emotions had gotten the better of him in responding to criticism.

He emphasized that his motivation in swimming was never about the medals themselves:

“I never swam for the gold medals.

My passion has always been about being one of the best swimmers in the world.

Those medals were just the cherry on top of an incredible journey.”

Lochte has collected a staggering 90 international medals across Olympics, World Championships, Pan Pacific, and Pan American Games competitions.

Earlier this week, he announced via a video from Goldin Auctions that three of his six Olympic golds would be available for purchase.

Reflecting on His Marriage

Lochte also opened up about the challenges of his marriage, taking responsibility for his shortcomings while acknowledging that both he and Reid didn’t fully understand each other:

“Navigating personal challenges in public can be incredibly tough.

I recognize my words have sparked backlash, and my intention was never to hurt anyone but to share honest feelings.

Behind the scenes, I’ve kept things private to protect our kids.”

He also reflected on personal growth, noting how therapy has helped him understand himself better and separate from past mistakes:

“I deeply regret any disappointment I’ve caused, including to the mother of my children.

I wouldn’t say I was a good husband, but I am committed to improving myself every day.”

Life After Public Scandals

Lochte has spent much of his post-competitive career trying to reshape his public image.

He is currently working on a memoir detailing his battles with drug and alcohol addiction and revisiting infamous incidents like the 2016 Rio “fake robbery” scandal, which he described as his lowest point.

Recovery, Family, and Future Plans

After a near-fatal car accident in 2023 and the resulting struggle with depression, Lochte has emerged sober and focused.

He is currently dating kindergarten teacher Molly Gillihan and prioritizing his three children.

“There’s a lot happening behind the scenes that I’ve kept private to protect my kids,” he shared.

Moving forward, Lochte says he intends to keep his personal life and past marriage out of the spotlight, concentrating instead on his faith, family, and new purpose.