Australian swimmer Cate Campbell has announced her retirement after failing to qualify for a fifth Olympics, capping a distinguished career that included setting seven world records and winning numerous medals.

The 32-year-old, widely recognized as one of the best relay swimmers in the sport, missed a spot in the Paris Olympics after falling short in the 50m and 100m freestyle at the Australian trials.

"I gave the pursuit of a fifth Olympics everything I had, and therefore, even in failure, there is a small, indelible kernel of pride," Campbell stated. "It's been a long and wild ride and I wouldn't change it for the world. I can't wait to cheer on the Australian Dolphins and the rest of the Australian Olympic Team in Paris."

Campbell's Olympic journey began at age 15 in 2008, where she won two bronze medals in Beijing. Over her career, she secured six more Olympic medals, including four golds in relays.

Her success extended to the world championships, where she claimed 12 medals, including four golds. Many of her world records were set in the 4x100m freestyle relay, an event she dominated at the London, Rio, and Tokyo Olympics. Additionally, she held the 100m world record in 2016, surpassing the previous record set by Germany's Britta Steffen during the supersuit era.

"Her service and contribution to swimming is just incredible—not just for what she achieved in the pool but also outside of it," praised Australian head coach Rohan Taylor. "She is a genuine leader, part of the Dolphins' leadership group, was always team first, and swam with heart."