Ryan Lochte Reveals All in New Book on Rio Scandal, Battle With Addiction, and Marriage Struggles
Nearly a decade after the 2016 Olympics scandal, swimmer Ryan Lochte is ready to share his story. The former gold medalist announced his plans to release a book detailing his fall from grace and the journey to rebuild his life.
Scandal and Controversy in Rio
Lochte’s incident in Brazil marked a dramatic shift in his life. Initially celebrated for his achievements in swimming, he faced public backlash following his claims of being robbed at gunpoint, which were later proven false. This lie stemmed from an altercation at a gas station, where Lochte and three teammates were accused of vandalizing a bathroom.
- Lochte reported being robbed by men posing as police.
- The incident occurred during the Rio Olympics in 2016.
- He faced charges for filing a false police report.
Although the charges were dismissed, Lochte’s reputation suffered irreparable damage. He described himself as “the most hated person in the world” during this tumultuous period.
Personal Struggles and Recovery
Following the scandal, Lochte’s personal life was fraught with challenges. He found himself struggling with addiction, turning to alcohol and drugs as he battled feelings of inadequacy. He detailed his tumultuous relationship with his ex-wife, Playboy model Kayla Rae Reid. Lochte revealed that he felt belittled and constantly reminded of his failures during their marriage.
“Every day, I woke up to be belittled,” he shared. “The only thing I ever wanted was a family, only to have failed at that as well.” Reid filed for divorce in March 2025.
A New Beginning
Despite the hardships, Lochte has made significant strides in his recovery. He is now in a relationship with Molly Gillihan, whom he praises for her supportive role in his life. Lochte has openly discussed his journey to sobriety, sharing that he has regained his confidence and voice.
As Lochte prepares to publish his book, readers can expect a narrative filled with both struggles and triumphs. His story reflects personal growth and resilience, emphasizing that even after a fall, one can rise again.
