The Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) has paid tribute to Olympian Emma McKeon on an extraordinary career following today’s announcement of her retirement from competitive swimming.
Emma retires as Australia’s most decorated Olympian, winning 14 medals across the Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Games, with six Olympic gold, three silver and five bronze.
The 30-year-old has made history throughout her stellar career. Her seven-medal haul at Tokyo 2020 is the most ever by a female swimmer at a single Games and equal most for any female athlete from any sport at a single Olympics, her final tally of 14 Olympic medals is tied for most by any female Olympic swimmer in history and she has held eight World Records.
An integral part of Australian swimming for more than a decade, Emma has consistently set the standard for excellence, dedication, and sportsmanship.
AOC President Ian Chesterman paid tribute to Emma's remarkable achievements.
“Emma has added her own incredible chapter to Australia’s history at the Olympic Games,” Mr Chesterman said. “Emma has been an extraordinary athlete who has etched herself a special place in Australian sporting landscape, particularly through her success at the Olympics.
“Her performances during Tokyo were particularly stunning. It was incredible to be there to witness her achievements, but also to see the way she conducted herself in and out of the pool.
“Emma is recognised not just in Australia, but around the world, as one of the greatest Olympians ever.
“We thank Emma for her wonderful contribution to Australian sport. She is a humble champion and a fantastic role model. We wish her great success and happiness in the next chapter of her life.”
Australian Olympic Team Chef de Mission Anna Meares praised Emma for her impact on the team and the broader sporting community.
“The contribution Emma has offered to the Olympic movement has been profound,” Ms Meares said. “Throughout her career Emma has acted with humility and a genuine love of what she is doing.
“She has a quiet and unassuming nature but was a ferocious and feared competitor, one I had the privilege to see as a teammate, a sports fan and as a Chef de Mission. To stay at the top of her field over three Games and surpass the medal tally of every other Australian Olympian in our proud history is testament to Emma’s character and commitment.
“Emma leaves the sport as an icon. We are so proud of everything she has achieved and wish her nothing but joy in her future, wherever that may be.”
