Emma McKeon, hailed as Australia’s most decorated Olympian, has officially announced her retirement from competitive swimming, marking the end of an illustrious career that saw her secure 14 Olympic medals, including an impressive six golds. Over the course of her career, McKeon has consistently showcased her extraordinary talent and determination in the pool, setting records that will stand the test of time.
At 30 years old, McKeon had already disclosed earlier this year that the upcoming Paris Games would be her final appearance at the Olympics, expressing immense pride in her monumental achievements within the sport. She reflected on the passion and energy she dedicated to her craft, recognizing the profound impact swimming has had on her life.
“Today I am officially retiring from competitive swimming,” McKeon stated emphatically on Monday, a day that marks a significant transition in her life.
“Leading into Paris, I knew it would be my last Olympics, and the months since have given me time to reflect on my journey and think about what I wanted my future to look like in swimming. It has been a remarkable chapter of my life filled with relentless training, unwavering dedication, and unforgettable moments.”
She reached a career total of 14 medals, including a bronze in the 4×100 mixed medley and a silver in the 4×100 medley relay during her final competition in Paris, solidifying her legacy as the third-most decorated Olympic swimmer in the annals of history, while also placing her seventh on the overall list of most decorated Olympic athletes across any sport.
McKeon first tasted gold at the Rio Games in 2016, and then she catapulted to fame by claiming four additional golds at the Tokyo Olympics. Her seven-medal haul at those Covid-affected Games not only set her apart as the most awarded athlete of the event but also broke the Australian record for the most career Olympic medals ever secured by an athlete.
On her final individual swim for Australia, she competed valiantly in the 100m butterfly final at La Défense Arena, ultimately finishing seventh but leaving a legacy of excellence behind.
The Australian Olympic Committee expressed its admiration for McKeon’s “extraordinary” career, noting that she has continuously set the benchmark for excellence in aquatic sports over the past decade. “Emma has added her own incredible chapter to Australia’s history at the Olympic Games,” remarked AOC president Ian Chesterman.
“Her performances during Tokyo were particularly stunning. Emma is recognized not just in Australia, but around the world, as one of the greatest Olympians ever.”
Beyond her Olympic achievements, McKeon boasts an astonishing record of 20 Commonwealth Games medals, including an astounding 14 golds, alongside equal success at the World Aquatics Championships. Over her career, she has held an impressive eight relay world records, with three still standing today, a testament to her unmatched prowess in the sport.
“Swimming has given me so much,” she remarked with palpable emotion. “From the dream igniting at five years old, right through to my third Olympic Games – I have so many lessons, experiences, friendships, and memories that I am incredibly thankful for. It has shaped who I am.”
“Now I am excited to see how I can push myself in other ways, and for all the things that life has in store.”
How does Emma McKeon plan to stay involved in the sport of swimming after her retirement, and what advice does she have for aspiring young swimmers?
**Interview with Emma McKeon on Her Retirement from Competitive Swimming**
**Host:** Welcome, Emma! Thank you for joining us to discuss your incredible career and your recent retirement from competitive swimming.
**Emma McKeon:** Thank you for having me! It’s a bittersweet moment, but I’m looking forward to sharing my journey.
**Host:** You’ve had an extraordinary career, becoming Australia’s most decorated Olympian with 14 Olympic medals, including six golds. As you reflect on this journey, what are some of the standout moments for you?
**Emma McKeon:** It’s hard to pick just a few moments! Winning my first gold medal in Rio in 2016 was monumental; it was the realization of a dream. Then, having an unforgettable Olympics in Tokyo, where I won four golds and seven medals was beyond anything I could have imagined. Each race brought its own challenges, but those victories were special, not just for me, but for my team and my country.
**Host:** Speaking of challenges, you’ve mentioned the relentless training and dedication involved in reaching such heights. Can you walk us through what a typical day looked like?
**Emma McKeon:** Absolutely! My days were typically packed with early morning swims, followed by gym sessions, and then another swim session in the evening. It wasn’t just about physical training; mental preparation was just as crucial. Maintaining focus and motivation through the grueling training cycles was vital. I had to be very disciplined and structured.
**Host:** You announced earlier this year that Paris would be your final Olympics. How did it feel to officially retire from competitive swimming last Monday?
**Emma McKeon:** It was a moment filled with emotions. I knew the Paris Games would be my last, and I spent the months leading up to it reflecting on my career. When I made the announcement, it felt like a significant transition. While I’m proud of my achievements, it’s also about looking forward and thinking about what comes next.
**Host:** You’ve hinted at future aspirations beyond swimming. What are your plans now that you’re moving on from competitive sports?
**Emma McKeon:** I’m excited about exploring new opportunities, whether that’s coaching, mentoring young athletes, or even delving into media. I want to stay connected to the sport I love while also finding how I can make an impact outside of the pool.
**Host:** Before we wrap up, what advice would you give to young athletes who look up to you?
**Emma McKeon:** My key piece of advice would be to stay passionate and dedicated to your goals, but also don’t forget to enjoy the journey. There will be ups and downs, but each experience teaches you something valuable. Cherish every moment, and remember that sport is not just about winning but also about personal growth and the friendships you build along the way.
**Host:** Thank you, Emma! We wish you all the best in your new endeavors, and congratulations once again on a remarkable career!
**Emma McKeon:** Thank you! I appreciate the support and am looking forward to what’s next.