Olympic medallist Ryan Lochte faces fresh family tension after ex-wife questions his parenting and girlfriend shares pointed message

Ryan Lochte is back in the spotlight, but this time it has nothing to do with swimming. The six-time Olympic gold medalist is facing public tension after his estranged wife questioned his role as a father, and his new girlfriend responded without naming names.

Earlier this week, Lochte’s wife, Kayla Reid, spoke openly about their strained relationship and parenting struggles. Her words were direct and emotional. Just hours later, Lochte’s girlfriend, Molly Gillihan, shared a message on social media that many saw as a quiet but clear response.The timing made waves. While no names were mentioned, the message came soon after Reid’s interview, adding more fuel to an already tense situation.

At the center of it all are three young children, a divorce still moving through court, and a former sports star trying to rebuild his life in public view.

Ryan Lochte, Kayla Reid, and Molly Gillihan at the center of a growing family dispute

Kayla Reid filed for divorce from Ryan Lochte in March 2025. The case is still not finalized. The two share three children, Caiden, 8, Liv, 6, and Georgia, 2.In an interview with People, Reid did not hide her pain. She said, “Obviously, we’re not in a good place. I really pray that he becomes the father our kids deserve.”

Those words spread fast. Within hours, Molly Gillihan posted a message on Instagram that many believed was aimed at the situation. Her post read, “Don’t regret being a good person to the harsh unkind people. Your actions say everything about you, and their words and actions say everything about them. Stay kind, even when they don’t deserve it. Be kind because God will take care of it.”Soon after, Gillihan shared a photo with Lochte and their combined six children, writing, “Finally got a car that fits the whole crew!” The couple moved in together in January 2025 after going public with their relationship in July 2024.The divorce has also brought serious claims. In court papers, Reid accused Lochte of using drugs in front of their children. Lochte denied that part strongly. He told People, “I am not denying that I used drugs in my home, but I adamantly deny ever using drugs in front of or around my children, and I have never driven them while intoxicated.”Money pressure has followed the split. Lochte sold three Olympic gold medals, including relay medals from the 2004 Athens, 2008 Beijing, and 2016 Rio Games.

He said the decision was misunderstood, explaining, “I never swam for the gold medals. My passion has always been about being one of the best swimmers in the world.”Now sober, in therapy, and writing a memoir, Lochte admits his failures. He said, “I would be lying if I said I was a good husband. I wasn’t. I’m committed to working on myself every day.” He has also shared that a serious car crash in 2023 pushed him into depression, something he is still working through.