Ryan Lochte explained why he’s selling three of his six Olympic gold medals and responded to his estranged wife’s recent Instagram post featuring their wedding vows.
The swimmer won his gold medals across three Olympic Games between 2004 and 2016. Lochte clarified his decision during recent interviews as he and Kayla Reid Lochte navigate their ongoing divorce proceedings.
“Personal challenges in public can be incredibly tough,” Lochte said about their situation.
The couple’s relationship has been playing out on social media recently. Kayla posted their wedding vows to Instagram, prompting questions about the timing amid their separation.
Financial Pressures Behind Medal Sales
Lochte’s decision to part with half of his Olympic gold medals stems from financial necessity rather than choice. The 12-time Olympic medalist has faced economic challenges in recent years.
He’s keeping three of his six gold medals while selling the others to collectors and sports memorabilia enthusiasts.
The swimming champion’s financial situation became more complicated following various controversies and sponsorship losses over the years. His earnings potential decreased significantly after the 2016 Rio Olympics incident.
Marriage and Divorce Proceedings
Ryan and Kayla married in 2018 after meeting through social media. They have two children together.
Their relationship status became unclear earlier this year when both stopped wearing wedding rings and began posting cryptic social media messages.
Kayla’s recent Instagram post featuring their wedding vows surprised many followers. The post included promises they made to each other during their ceremony.
“These vows meant everything to us then, and they still matter now,” Kayla wrote in the caption.
Ryan responded carefully when asked about the post. He emphasized their commitment to co-parenting despite their personal challenges.
The swimmer acknowledged that handling relationship problems while in the public eye creates additional stress. Media attention makes private matters more difficult to resolve quietly.
Olympic Legacy and Current Focus
Beyond his six gold medals, Lochte won three silver and three bronze medals across four Olympics. His 12 total Olympic medals make him one of the most decorated swimmers in history.
He specialized in individual medley and backstroke events during his competitive career.
The athlete has been working on various business ventures since retiring from competitive swimming. These include swimming instruction and motivational speaking.
Lochte remains focused on his children’s wellbeing during this transition period. He’s prioritizing stability for his family while managing the practical aspects of separation.
The medal sales represent a pragmatic approach to his current financial needs rather than any diminished pride in his achievements.
Both Ryan and Kayla have requested privacy as they work through their personal matters away from social media speculation.
