Olympic swimmer Ryan Lochte has responded to public criticism concerning his recent engagement to girlfriend Molly Gillihan, a kindergarten teacher. The engagement, announced earlier this month after 14 months of dating, drew backlash from some social media users who noted that Lochte's divorce from his ex-wife, Kayla Rae Reid, has not yet been officially finalized.
Lochte addressed the scrutiny in an Instagram story post on Tuesday, stating, "Apparently, I’m not allowed to say I’m divorced until every signature is in place. So, while we’ve reached an agreement, the judge hasn’t officially signed off yet. My mistake for thinking the hard part was over." He added, "Molly and I are realizing this may just be the beginning of a very tough and exhausting road. Prayers appreciated while we navigate this new reality. It seems someone wants to make sure this chapter isn’t quite done with me yet."
Lochte and Reid, who were married for seven years and share three children, announced their separation in June 2025. In March 2026, Reid suggested on her podcast, "Comeback Era," that Lochte had been dating Gillihan while still married, alleging they had been together "for many years."
Lochte has denied these claims, asserting that he began dating Gillihan only after the divorce was announced and while he was living alone. He was a prominent figure in competitive swimming from 2004 to 2021, earning 12 Olympic medals, including six golds. He was part of the world record-setting 4×200-meter freestyle relay team at the 2009 World Championships.
Lochte's career has also been marked by controversy. During the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, he and teammates were involved in an incident at a gas station that led to his suspension from competition for 14 months in 2018 due to an unauthorized intravenous infusion. He currently works as an assistant swimming coach at Missouri State.