Katie Ledecky reflected on her bronze medal performance in the 400 free during a press conference after the final in Paris.
“It was such a good field that there was a chance that I could have not have gotten a medal, so I’m grateful for that, grateful for the effort that I put in, happy with the medal and looking forward to my next races,” Ledecky said.
“I don’t feel like necessarily I’ve put together the 400 that I’m capable of recently but I know it’s in there.”
Ledecky went on to talk about training with people like Bobby Finke and Kieran Smith, getting emotional as she described the impact the people around her in this sport have had on her.
“It’s just a really special group and it’s why I love the sport so much because I get to spend everyday with people Bobby and Kieran and my coaches and everyone that believes in me and pushes me, and I think just the confidence I was able to have today is a testament to them.”
You can watch the full clip from her interview below.
Katie Ledecky‘s Post-Race Interview
She already has such a legacy, and there’s still more to come. I love the dynamic that group seems to have, this is still one of my favorite interviews: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LOPMEaoGWds&list=PLpGnyi4Etb2EcMzIb6EiNtepbcAbOTHrI&index=112&ab_channel=SwimSwam
Still the goat in the 800/1500m. Best distance swimmer since Janet Evans- amazing. She will be racing at the next olympics against Summer.
What a champ. She is also part of a wonderful team that she dearly loves. That is so emotional, this is her family.
I think she’s moving on from Florida. The frustration on her face at trials and now this is telling
I am a little surprised Bella is continuing on at Florida. I am sad she kind of got lost in the wash this year, though I know many say it takes more than one year to adjust to Florida training
It must be so frustrating for her–she was so good the rest of this quad, but just hasn’t looked the same this year as she did in 2023. She’s changed coaches every quad so it wouldn’t be a shock if she moves on. Only issue is that I can’t think of another coach that would be an obvious choice for her and her events. For some reason I can’t see her going to Bowman.
Uhhhh, no. You’re reading into it what you want to read into it.
We absolutely love you Katie! Even more knowing you are human too!
Interesting. It’s got to be such an isolating experience to be that kind of successful as a swimmer. It clearly wasn’t easy for Phelps or Dressel, and I don’t think it’s easy for her either. The pressure to keep going for as long as you can medal at the Olympics must be huge. But sooner or later you’re going to fade. And then to be late 20s with no idea what a normal life is even like. You’re supposed to say you love swimming, but how do you even know?
She’s already said she’ll keep swimming as long as she loves the sport. She also said that she plans to pursue graduate work after her career is over.
What is your definition of a normal life? Working a 9 to 5? I think she would know if she loves her present career or not. When you don’t you move on to the next thing in your life. She has the financial freedom to do that. Most people don’t, so a “normal life” becomes hating your career choice.
She’s so special in every way.
It’s ok Katie. You are allowed to show your emotions. We love you for that and think you are the best.!