Ryan Lochte has publicly responded to his estranged wife, Kayla Lochte, after she shared their wedding vows on social media, emphasizing the complexity of their ongoing divorce. In a statement posted on his Instagram account on December 18, 2023, Lochte defended his earlier comment that he “barely knew” Kayla at the time of their marriage, aiming to clarify his feelings during a challenging time.
In his post, the **41-year-old swimmer** expressed gratitude for the opportunity to articulate his thoughts, acknowledging the backlash he faced. “Navigating personal challenges in public can be incredibly tough,” Lochte wrote. He stated that his intention was never to cause harm but to share his honest perspective on their relationship.
Lochte recognized Kayla’s decision to share their wedding vows as a means of highlighting their past connection. “While I respect that, I still stand by my belief that we didn’t fully know each other, and honestly, I didn’t know myself or who I was,” he stated. He also emphasized his appreciation for their three children: son **Caiden Zane**, 8, and daughters **Liv Rae**, 6, and **Georgia June**, 2.
The couple announced their divorce in June 2023, following Kayla’s initial filing in March. Lochte reflected on his past behavior during their marriage, admitting he had not always been the best partner. He credited therapy for helping him gain insights into himself, stating, “It’s been a transformative journey for me, helping me uncover insights about myself that I previously overlooked.” He expressed a commitment to personal growth and acknowledged the disappointment he may have caused to those close to him, including Kayla.
In his detailed statement, Lochte also addressed his decision to sell his Olympic medals, a topic that has generated concern amid their financial difficulties. “I never swam for the gold medals. My passion has always been about being one of the best swimmers in the world,” he explained. He highlighted his achievements, which include **90 international medals** across various competitions, noting that the medals were more about the journey than personal accolades.
“I’ve given away medals to fans and young kids in the stands, because it’s never been just about me,” Lochte added. “It’s about inspiring the next generation and helping them chase their dreams.”
On December 11, 2023, Kayla shared a video of their wedding vows on Instagram, accompanied by a caption that hinted at her own struggles during the divorce. “I’m currently navigating a complex divorce, and let me tell you — divorce can feel like being frozen in time,” she wrote. Kayla expressed her intention to use this period for personal growth and to pursue her dreams with renewed clarity.
As both Ryan and Kayla navigate the emotional landscape of their separation, they are also focused on their responsibilities as co-parents. The public statements from both parties reveal a commitment to maintaining their children’s well-being amid the challenges they face.
