
Olympic gold medalist Ryan Lochte splits from wife Kayla Rae Reid — a former Playboy model — after seven years
Image via Instagram/ Ryan Lochte (Image of Ryan Lochte with Kayla Rae Reid and their three children)
In the sometimes turbulent intersection of celebrity and family, Olympic gold often casts a long shadow on personal life. Ryan Lochte, once celebrated as a charismatic champion of the pool, is now navigating a very different kind of challenge: a heart-wrenching divorce after seven years of marriage.
His wife, Kayla Rae Reid, known for her career as a Playboy model and now a successful realtor, has described their split as 'one of the most painful, revealing, and challenging seasons' of her life.
Kayla's announcement—grounded in deep reflection and spoken from a place of healing—offers a glimpse into a private journey made public. It's a story of two people who once soared together into gratitude and triumph, now finding themselves at a crossroads.
But beneath the sadness lies an uplifting thread: a profound commitment to authenticity, self-love, and a shared dedication to their three children. This isn't just a celebrity breakup—it's a testament to choosing inner peace and resilience over staying in pain.
Why did the couple choose to split?
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Kayla and Ryan's love story began at the 2016 Rio Olympics and blossomed quickly. They got engaged the same year and married in 2018. The couple welcomed three children: son Caiden Zane (almost 8), daughter Liv Rae (6), and little Georgia June (just turned 2) . On June 4, Kayla took to Instagram to share her heartbreaking update:
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'Earlier this year, I made the hard decision to end my marriage after deep prayer and reflection… For me, leaving was an act of love—for those around me and for myself.'
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She emphasized marriage's value and took time to speak only when her wounds had healed enough—not in the raw aftermath. 'Protecting our peace, our children, and our future' took precedence over preserving appearances.
Ryan, ever the public figure, replied with grace. He described the decision as 'difficult' and a step 'toward peace and well‑being for us both.' His social media post honored their shared history and emphasized their unity in parenting.
Later, through a candid video shared on Instagram Stories, Lochte admitted the public reaction was 'rough,' especially while spending time with Caiden and Liv. He expressed heartfelt thanks for the 'open arms' of his support circle and reaffirmed his 'commitment to healing, growth, and co‑parenting with care and respect'.
While neither has disclosed intimate details, court filings and insiders indicate the split was amicable yet rooted in deeper issues.
Kayla filed for divorce on March 26, citing their marriage as 'irretrievably broken'. Additionally, Ryan confronted serious difficulties in recent years—recovering from a near‑fatal car accident, battling depression, and addressing financial strain. Through it all, Kayla remained steadfast, described as his fiercest support until a revealing tipping point appeared.
Ryan Lochte and Kayla Reid's separation is a poignant chapter of love, growth, and transformation.
Though the spotlight once traced their joyful beginnings—from Olympic fame to family milestones—it now illuminates their courageous choice to part ways with respect and purpose. Kayla's heartfelt reflection, framed in prayer and authenticity, and Ryan's unwavering commitment to co‑parenting, signal that endings can still hold dignity.
Their story reminds us that honoring oneself and one's loved ones sometimes means letting go. And perhaps, amid the disappointment, lies the promise of new beginnings—grounded in grace, healing, and the shared devotion to their children.
Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
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