Ryan Lochte and Kayla Lochte announce divorce after 7 years of marriage
Olympian Ryan Lochte and his wife, realtor Kayla Lochte, are parting ways after seven years of marriage.
Kayla Lochte shared the personal update in an Instagram post Wednesday.
"Earlier this year, I made the hard decision to end my marriage after deep prayer and reflection," she wrote in a statement. "I hold marriage in the highest regard, so this has been one of the most painful, revealing, and challenging seasons of my life. I've been hesitant to share until I could do so from a place of healing -- not from fresh, open wounds."
The former couple were engaged in 2016 and tied the knot in January 2018. They share three children, Caiden, 7, Liv, 4, and Georgia, 1.
"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," Kayla Lochte continued in her lengthy statement. "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."
Ryan Lochte, a 12-time Olympic medalist swimmer, also shared a message on his Instagram page, confirming the couple's separation.
"I want to take a moment to acknowledge what Kayla shared. This past year has brought major changes for both of us as we've come to the difficult decision to end our marriage," the 40-year-old wrote. "I'm deeply grateful for the life we've built together and especially for the love we share for our three children."
He added that he felt their mutual decision was "the right step toward peace and well-being" for both of them.
"I remain committed to healing, growth, and co-parenting with care and respect as we move forward separately," Ryan Lochte added. "Thank you to our family and friends for your continued support -- it truly means a lot as we begin this new chapter."
