'I’ve felt very empty and lonely'- Australian swimmer Kaylee McKeown on life after Paris Olympics triumph

Australian swimmer Kaylee McKeown has opened up about the emotional toll of returning to normal life after her stunning success at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The 23-year-old, who emerged as one of the most decorated Australian athletes at the games, is currently grappling with feelings of loneliness and emptiness

McKeown’s Paris campaign was nothing short of extraordinary as she successfully defended her Olympic titles in both the 100m and 200m backstroke, while also securing bronze in the 200m individual medley.

In addition to her individual success, she contributed to Australia’s silver medal in the women’s 4x100m medley and bronze in the 4x100m mixed medley event. This brought her overall Olympic medal tally to nine, including three golds from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

However, the highs of Olympic glory have been followed by an emotional low. In a candid interaction with her followers during an Instagram session, McKeown revealed the emotional challenges she has faced since coming back from Paris.

«It’s been extremely hard coming from such a high-pressure environment,»

«I did more than I thought I could ever achieve in Paris. Riding the wave of success and enjoyment has a come down at some point! Since coming home I’ve felt very empty and lonely. I’m such a routine-oriented person, so to now be home and have no current goals, no training schedule—it’s been a reality check.»

Kaylee McKeown was also selected as Australia’s flag bearer for the Paris Olympics’ closing ceremony, alongside sailor Matthew Wearn, in recognition of her outstanding performance and leadership.

But despite these accolades and achievements the post-Olympics period has brought its own challenges for the swimmer.

McKeown reflected on the highs and lows of racing during her Instagram questions and answer session.

«Racing can become extremely draining emotionally and physically! I was absolutely in awe of my performances but more in awe of the Australian Team. If I had one highlight from Paris, it was pure joy and relief,» she stated.

Swimming was Australia’s most successful sport in Paris, with the team taking home 19 medals: seven gold, nine silver, and three bronze.

Only the United States surpassed Australia in the overall swimming medal count finishing with 28 medals and McKeown played a key role in that success contributing two golds to the total.