"Tough to say goodbye"- Ariarne Titmus pens an emotional message reflecting on bidding goodbye to the sport

Ariarne Titmus shared a heartfelt message, making her feelings known about her retirement from swimming. The Australian enjoyed an illustrious 18-year career in swimming.

After delivering an impressive performance at the Paris Olympics, Titmus took a break from competitive swimming. After a year-long hiatus, she announced her retirement in October 2025. Presently, she is spending her time with her loved ones and frequently shares updates on social media.

As 2025 is nearing its end, the Australian penned an emotional message reflecting on her year. She also opened up about bidding goodbye to the sport. Stating how tough it was for her to say goodbye to the sport and looking forward to the new year, she wrote:

"The first time since I was seven I haven’t thought about competing. I feel so blessed that my transition out of sport has been as smooth as it gets. But it doesn’t mean there’s not challenges on days where little things trigger an emotional response. It’s tough to say goodbye to a big part of your life. But, knowing it was time made it feel like exactly what it was.. a closing chapter. This year has been rewarding in so many new ways and I cannot wait to see what 2026 brings 🥂❤️"

Here is the video, where she added clips of her special moments of 2025:

In this post's caption, she also spoke about her family, friends, and her boyfriend, Mack Powell.

---

Ariarne Titmus announced her retirement with a special note

Ariarne Titmus announced her retirement on October 16. The Australian posted a video of her making the announcement on Instagram and wrote the caption to her younger self.

Talking about her dreams, journey, and the support she got during her journey, she said that it was now time to bid the sport goodbye. Reflecting on her entire journey, she wrote:

"Dear seven year old Ariarne, Today you retire from competitive swimming. 18 years you spent in the pool competing. 10 of those representing your country. You went to two Olympic Games and even better, you won!!! The dreams you had.. they all came true. The friends you’ve made.. they’re for life. You achieved more than you ever thought you were capable of and you should be so proud," said Ariarne Titmus.

She added:

"Along the journey you’ve met some incredible people who have helped all the way. Your coaches (one very special one in particular), your support staff, team mates, competitors, sponsors, friends, family and fans. Make sure you thank them. You’ve just turned 25 and the time feels right to step away from swimming. The pursuit was unrelenting and you gave it every skerrick of yourself."

Enjoying her time away from the sport, Ariarne Titmus recently went on a date with her boyfriend, Powell.

Edited by Tushhita Barua