Olympic swimming champion Ryan Lochte has publicly addressed allegations of marital infidelity following claims made by his former spouse, Kayla Rae Reid. The 41-year-old athlete issued a statement this week categorically denying that he engaged in an extramarital relationship during his marriage.
In a statement provided to media outlets on Wednesday, March 4, Lochte asserted his commitment to personal growth while firmly rejecting the accusations. The swimmer emphasized that he has been working diligently on self-improvement and character development in the wake of his divorce.
Timeline of Relationship Disputed
The controversy stems from comments made by Reid, 34, during the March 2 episode of her podcast, "The Comeback Era." During the broadcast, Reid referred to Lochte's current girlfriend, Molly Gillihan, as his "mistress" and suggested their relationship predated the formal dissolution of the marriage.
Lochte directly addressed these allegations, stating that he initiated contact with Gillihan only after receiving divorce papers and establishing separate living arrangements. The athlete expressed concern about his current partner being drawn into the public dispute, maintaining that no inappropriate relationship existed during his marriage to Reid.
Background of the Marriage
Lochte and Reid entered into matrimony in 2018, having publicly acknowledged their relationship during the 2016 Summer Olympics. The former couple share three children: an eight-year-old son named Caiden and two daughters, Liv, age six, and Georgia, age two.
Reid initiated divorce proceedings last year, concluding their seven-year union. In a June 2025 social media statement, she described the decision as one made after considerable contemplation and spiritual reflection. Reid characterized the separation as occurring during one of the most challenging periods of her life, noting she delayed public disclosure until reaching a point of emotional healing.
Lochte responded to the divorce filing days later, acknowledging the difficulty of the decision while expressing his belief that separation represented the appropriate path forward for both parties. He committed to maintaining a respectful co-parenting relationship and focusing on the well-being of their children.
Moving Forward
In January of this year, approximately seven months following the divorce filing, Lochte publicly acknowledged establishing a new residence with Gillihan. The athlete shared the milestone on social media, posting a photograph of the couple in their new living space.
Subsequently, Lochte disclosed details regarding his personal development efforts, which he indicated have been centered on becoming an improved parent. The swimmer revealed he has undergone rehabilitation treatment, renewed his religious commitment, and engaged in therapeutic counseling. These efforts, he stated, have resulted in securing equal custody arrangements, allowing him to spend fifty percent of his time with his children.
The public nature of these allegations highlights the complexities that arise when high-profile individuals navigate divorce proceedings. As both parties continue to establish their separate lives, the focus remains on their ability to maintain a functional co-parenting relationship for the benefit of their three young children.
Neither party has indicated plans for further public statements regarding the matter at this time.