In a change of plans, Japan’s 25-year-old Olympian Rikako Ikee has decided to leave her current training base in Australia and return to her native country ahead of her previously scheduled departure.
On social media this week, the three-time Olympian wrote:
“My training in Australia has come to an end 🇦🇺✨
Since 2023, I’ve been swimming with Boly and Janell’s team. Along the way, I met the most amazing teammates—so strong, kind, and inspiring—who’ve become a lasting part of my life. To all my supporters, thank you from the bottom of my heart 💙 And thank you, Mel”
Ikee had been training at Griffith University, first under coach Michael Bohl before he left for a brief retirement ahead of joining the Chinese Association staff.
Then Ikee was under the tutelage of former British coach Mel Marshall alongside Janelle Pallister before the latter moved on to become Surrey Park’s head coach.
We reported just this past July that Ikee had said she intended to remain at Griffith University leading up to the 2028 Olympic Games. She also indicated that LA28 would be her last Olympic appearance before retiring.
Ikee did not cite a catalyst for her decision to move back to Japan; however, her Aussie coaches and teammates have wished her well in her departure.
Coach Pallister commented on Ikee’s post, “Rikki I loved the time we had together. You are a beautiful person and I’m very thankful I was able to coach you and spend time with you. Wishing you all the very best.”
Olympic champion Kaylee McKeown responded, ‘love always’ while Commonwealth Games athlete Cody Simpson commented, ‘We will miss you Rikki.’
