Australian swimming champion and four-time Olympic gold medallist Ariarne Titmus has shocked fans by announcing her sudden retirement at the age of 25.
According to reports, Titmus decided to retire immediately, ending an 18-year swimming career. She made the announcement on social media, saying she had dedicated 10 years to representing her country and that although the decision was difficult, she felt at peace with it.
“I have always loved swimming, but there comes a time when you start seeing life beyond it,” she said. “The fear of cancer was a turning point for me, and it affected me mentally.”
Earlier this year, Titmus underwent surgery to remove a cancerous tumour just before the Paris Olympics.
Titmus made history as the first Australian swimmer since 1964 to win back-to-back Olympic gold medals in the same event. At the Paris Olympics, she defeated two former world record holders to win gold in the 400m freestyle.
Over her career, Titmus earned eight Olympic medals across the Tokyo and Paris Games. She also holds world records in both the 200m and 400m freestyle events.