Ariarne Titmus Responds as News About Olympic Champ Brianna Throssell Sparks Flood of Messages

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Ariarne Titmus Responds as News About Olympic Champ Brianna Throssell Sparks Flood of Messages

Ariarne Titmus has joined the outpouring of congratulations for Brianna Throssell after the Olympic gold medallist announced her retirement from competitive swimming on Sunday. Throssell revealed her decision on social media, effective immediately, after announcing last year at the Paris Olympics that she would not continue to the next Games.

Throssell had a breakthrough moment at the 2024 Paris Olympics, securing her first Olympic gold medal as part of the women’s 4x200m freestyle relay team. Although she had won a gold in the 4x100m medley relay at the Tokyo Games, she was only a heat swimmer on that occasion. In Paris, Throssell raced in the final and helped her team, alongside Titmus, Mollie O'Callaghan, and Lani Pallister, secure the gold.

"As I reflect on everything I’ve accomplished, I feel an overwhelming sense of pride in the journey I’ve taken," Throssell wrote when announcing her retirement.

"For over 12 years, I’ve been part of the Australian Dolphins team, giving everything I had, leaving no stone unturned. Swimming has been the biggest part of my life, and I’ve pushed myself to the absolute limit. I’ve competed in two Commonwealth Games, six long-course World Championships, three Olympics, won four Olympic medals, and set a world record. Each of these achievements holds a special place in my heart. But the greatest reward has been the person I’ve become through it all.

"I am so proud of everything I’ve achieved and incredibly grateful for the lessons swimming has taught me. It was never about the medals—it’s about the people I’ve met, the strength I’ve found within myself, and the pride in knowing I gave everything I had."

Titmus, who roomed with Throssell in Paris, was among the first to offer her congratulations. The two have shared a close bond for years. On Monday, Titmus wrote on social media, “I am so, so proud of you, beautiful, in and out of the pool. I am so blessed for your support and friendship and can’t wait to see you do great things in the next chapter of your life! Love you lots. Here’s to making many more memories.”

The praise for Throssell continued to pour in, with fellow swimmers Mollie O'Callaghan, Cameron McEvoy, and Shayna Jack also sharing their well-wishes.

Throssell later posted another message on Instagram, thanking everyone for their support, with a special mention of Titmus. "The past few days have been incredibly emotional, and I’ve been absolutely overwhelmed by the beautiful messages of love and support," she wrote. "Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I feel so lucky to have been surrounded by the most amazing people throughout my swimming journey.

"To my biggest supporters—Mum, Dad, and Nick—thank you for being there through it all. The early mornings, the tough days, the best moments, and everything in between. I truly wouldn’t be here without you. To my fiancé Josh, thank you for always being by my side, cheering me on, and supporting me every step of the way. I can’t wait for this next chapter together."

Throssell also expressed gratitude to her teammates, especially Titmus, along with Evie and Shayna Jack, for the memories, laughs, and unwavering support. "This sport has given me more than I could have ever imagined, and while this chapter is closing, my love for swimming and the people in it will never fade. I’ll forever cherish the friendships, the lessons, and the incredible moments that have shaped who I am today."

Throssell concludes her career with 39 medals, including four Olympic medals. She will now focus on a new career in business, joining Deloitte Australia's Mergers and Acquisitions team.