SYDNEY — Emma McKeon, renowned as Australia’s most accomplished Olympian, has made the announcement on Monday that she is stepping away from competitive swimming.
McKeon boasts a remarkable record of 14 Olympic medals, including six golds, achieved throughout her participation in three Summer Olympic Games. Notably, her impressive tally of seven medals at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics is unprecedented for any female swimmer in a single event, and matches the highest number gained by any female athlete across all sports in one Olympic competition.
At the age of 30, McKeon previously mentioned that the 2024 Paris Games could mark the end of her Olympic journey, where she claimed gold in the 4 x 100m freestyle relay. However, she had not confirmed whether she would keep competing in swimming.
“I am proud of myself for giving my swimming career absolutely everything, both physically and mentally. I wanted to see what I was capable of, and I did,” she expressed on social media.
“Swimming has enriched my life enormously. From the ignition of my dream at just five years old, right through to my participation in my third Olympic Games – I have gained countless lessons, experiences, friendships, and memories for which I am incredibly grateful.”
Throughout her Olympic journey, McKeon’s 14 medals were earned over the Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020, and Paris 2024 Games, comprising six golds, three silvers, and five bronzes.
Only Katie Ledecky, the American swimmer, holds more Olympic gold medals than McKeon, with nine golds out of her total of 14 across four Olympic Games.
“Emma has added her own remarkable chapter to Australia’s Olympic history,” remarked Ian Chesterman, President of the Australian Olympic Committee, in a official statement. “She has been an extraordinary athlete, securing her place in the Australian sports landscape, particularly through her phenomenal Olympic success.
“Her performances during the Tokyo Games were particularly impressive. Emma is recognized not only in Australia but worldwide as one of the greatest Olympians of all time.”