“It’s just a special way for me to get involved.”
After seven years of marriage and three kids, Olympic gold medalist Ryan Lochte and real estate agent Kayla Reid have announced their divorce.
In separate statements shared on Wednesday, June 4, the former couple shared how they are feeling after making the difficult decision.
Reid was the first to share the news, writing, “earlier this year, I made the hard decision to end my marriage after deep prayer and reflection. I hold marriage in the highest regard, so this has been one of the most painful, revealing, and challenging seasons of my life.”
Reid continued, saying she’s “been hesitant to share until I could do so from a place of healing - not from fresh, open wounds. Sometimes we face trials we didn't choose or see coming. And in those moments, we're forced to make the hardest decisions to protect our peace, our children, and our future.”
“I’ve come to understand that staying isn't always the most loving decision someone can make. For me, leaving was an act of love - for those around me and for myself,” she continued. “Living with transparency and authenticity has been how I have grown into the person I am today, and I'll continue to do so - while also protecting the parts of this journey that are private and unfolding in uncharted territory.”
The mom of three added that she believes “God is still at work - even in the breaking, even in the unknown. I choose to believe that new growth can emerge from broken ground.”
“Moving forward, I'm choosing to give myself grace. I'm choosing resilience. And I'm choosing to believe that what lies ahead will bring strength and peace. Your prayers and continued support mean the world to me right now.”
Roughly an hour later, Lochte took to his Instagram page to share his own words.
“I want to take a moment to acknowledge what Kayla shared,” the swimmer began. “This past year has brought major changes for both of us as we've come to the difficult decision to end our marriage. I'm deeply grateful for the life we've built together and especially for the love we share for our three children.”
Together, Lochte and Reid share 8-year-old Caiden, 5-year-old Liv and 1-year-old Georgia.
“Although this decision hasn't been easy,” Lochte continued, “I believe it's the right step toward peace and well-being for us both. I remain committed to healing, growth, and co-parenting with care and respect as we move forward separately. Thank you to our family and friends for your continued support - it truly means a lot as we begin this new chapter.”
According to People, Lochte and Reid met in 2016, proposing to her that same year after competing at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
