Ryan Lochte has made a big decision that has caught the sports world’s attention. The American swimming star has sold three of his Olympic gold medals at auction, bringing in a total of $385,520. The sale was first reported by CLLCT, with details shared by journalist Darren Rovell.The medals sold include his 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics 4×200-meter freestyle relay gold medal, which went for $183,000, his 2004 Athens Summer Olympics 4×200-meter relay gold medal at $80,000, and his 2016 Rio Summer Olympics 4×200-meter freestyle relay gold medal, which sold for $122,000. All three medals came from relay events, including races where he swam alongside Michael Phelps.This move comes at a tough time in Lochte’s life. He is going through a divorce from his wife Kayla Reid, who filed for divorce after seven years of marriage. At the same time, Lochte is trying to rebuild his life after years of public mistakes, health struggles, and battles with addiction. Important details first: the medals are sold, the money is real, and Lochte says the choice was not about money alone, but about closing a chapter and moving forward.
Ryan Lochte explains why he sold his medals and speaks openly about divorce, mistakes, and healing
Lochte spoke openly on social media about why he decided to sell his medals. He said, “I also would like to clarify the selling of my medals. I never swam for the gold medals. My passion has always been about being one of the best swimmers in the world.”He added, “Those medals? They were just the cherry on top of an incredible journey. With 90 international medals, including Olympics, world championships, Pan Pac, and Pan Am Games, I have been fortunate to achieve more than any swimmer out there.”Earlier, Lochte appeared in a video with Goldin auction house, confirming that three of his six gold medals would be put up for sale. This was not the first time he sold medals. In 2022, he sold six Olympic silver and bronze medals for $166,000.The 41-year-old also spoke about his divorce and took responsibility for his actions. He said, “I would be lying if I said I was a good husband. I was not. I am committed to working on myself every day.” He added that personal issues played out in public are hard and that he wants to protect his children.Lochte also shared that therapy helped him understand himself better. “Therapy has been a transformative journey for me,” he said, explaining that he is working to leave the past behind.After the 2016 Rio Olympics incident, which he has called his lowest point, Lochte said he struggled deeply and turned to substances to deal with shame. He is now sober and has spoken about focusing on his children, faith, and a new purpose. He is also working on a memoir that will tell his full story, including addiction, public mistakes, and recovery.Also Read: Ryan Lochte’s Net Worth: How The Olympic Champion’s Fortune Fell To $300,000
