NOV 25,(V7N) - Emma McKeon, Australia's most decorated Olympian, has announced her retirement from swimming, concluding an extraordinary career marked by 14 Olympic medals and 20 world championship medals. The 30-year-old swimmer confirmed her decision on Monday, reflecting on the journey that shaped her into one of the sport’s all-time greats.

McKeon, who hinted at retiring earlier this year during the Paris Olympics, contributed to Australia's record-breaking performance at the Summer Games, winning gold, silver, and bronze in relay events.

"I will definitely miss it," McKeon said in a statement. "It’s brought me a lot of great relationships and shaped me into the person I am. But I’m definitely ready for the next part of my life, which I’m excited for."

A Glittering Career

McKeon first made her mark in the pool at the 2016 Rio Olympics, securing her first gold in the 4x100m freestyle relay, two silvers in relays, and a bronze in the 200m freestyle. At the 2021 Tokyo Games, she cemented her legacy by winning seven medals, including gold in the 100m freestyle and 50m freestyle, making her the most decorated athlete of the Games.

Her performance also included two relay golds and three bronze medals, bringing her total to 14 Olympic medals—the most by any Australian athlete. McKeon was also part of relay teams that set eight world records, three of which remain unbroken.

Reflections and Legacy

Despite missing out on the 2012 London Olympics as a teenager, McKeon persisted, using the setback to fuel her determination. "You have ups and you have downs," she said. "You just keep going along and ticking the boxes. I can’t believe where I’m at right now and how I got here."

Australian swimming coach Rohan Taylor praised her as a role model, highlighting her resilience and dignity. "While we all saw her grace, the public cannot truly appreciate how tough she is," Taylor said.

McKeon’s uncle, Rob Woodhouse, CEO of Swimming Australia, singled out her Tokyo 100m freestyle victory—where she edged out Hong Kong’s Siobhan Haughey by 0.31 seconds—as a career highlight.

Inspiring the Next Generation

McKeon hopes her story will inspire young athletes to persevere through challenges. “I want young kids to know that I was once in the same position they are—dreaming of one day doing something big."

As McKeon transitions into the next phase of her life, her unparalleled accomplishments, humility, and advocacy for young athletes leave an enduring legacy in Australian sport.

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