U.S. Swimming Legend Ryan Lochte Responds To Engagement Backlash

OMAHA, NEBRASKA - JUNE 18: Ryan Lochte of the United States reacts after competing in the Men's 200m individual medley final during Day Six of the 2021 U.S. Olympic Team Swimming Trials at CHI Health Center on June 18, 2021 in Omaha, Nebraska. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)Tom Pennington/Getty Images

U.S. Swimming Legend Ryan Lochte Responds To Engagement Backlash

Originally posted on The Spun | By Tzvi Machlin | Last updated Jun 24, 2026 3:47 PM ET

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As former Olympic gold medalist Ryan Lochte and his now-ex-wife Kayla put the final touches on their divorce, Lochte has decided to get engaged - which has apparently angered a large number of people.

Lochte and Molly Gillihan have reportedly been dating for about 14 months and started seeing each other soon after Kayla filed for divorce. A few days ago, Lochte and Gillihan announced that they're goig to be getting married.

That announcement led to a backlash from fans who accused Lochte of moving on too quickly. Lochte didn't appreciate seeing so much new discourse about his personal life and responded.

Taking to his Instagram Story, Lochte made it clear that a divorce agreement is in place but simply hasn't been signed off officially by the judge yet. He said that he now realizes that "a very tough and exhausting road" awaits him and Gillihan.

"Correction: Apparently I'm not allowed to say I'm divorced until every signature is in place. So, while we've reached an agreement, the judge hasn't officially signed off yet. My mistake for thinking the hard part was over. Molly and I are realizing this may just be the beginning of a very tough and exhausting road.

Ryan Lochte sends angry Instagram message after engagement backlash https://t.co/9m5JEMbDAB pic.twitter.com/L5HXoDKQyz
— New York Post (@nypost) June 24, 2026

"Prayers appreciated while we navigate this new reality. It seems someone wants to make sure this chapter isn't quite done with yet."

Lochte: Rise and Decline of a Legend

Lochte is one of the most accomplished swimmers in Olympic history. Competing for the United States from the early 2000s through the 2016 Olympics, Lochte won 12 Olympic medals, including six gold, three silver, and three bronze, making him one of the most decorated male swimmers ever. He was a key member of multiple American relay teams and excelled in individual medley events, backstroke, and freestyle races.

Beyond the Olympics, Lochte captured dozens of medals at the FINA World Championships and became known for his versatility across several swimming disciplines. At his peak, he was widely regarded as one of the best all-around swimmers in the world, particularly in the 200-meter and 400-meter individual medley events.

Although his career was later overshadowed by controversy stemming from an incident during the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, his athletic achievements remain substantial.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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