Two-Time British Olympian Joe Litchfield Retires From Competitive Swimming

Great Britain’s Joe Litchfield has announced his retirement from competitive swimming at the age of 27.

The two-time Olympian took to social media to reveal his decision, conveying, “After 20+ years of daily baths disguised as training sessions, permanent goggle marks and almost always having a blocked nose, the time has come for me to retire from swimming.

“It’s hard to explain in one short post what this sport has given me. From competing for my country on the Olympic, World, European and Commonwealth stage, to becoming World and European Champion, swimming has taken me further than I ever could have imagined. More importantly, it’s introduced me to incredible people, lifelong friends and memories that I’ll carry with me forever.

“Thank you to every coach, teammate, member of staff and sponsor who helped and supported me throughout the years. I’ve been incredibly lucky to share this journey with all of you incredible people.

“A huge thank you to my family, because without them none of this would ever have been possible. To my parents for the endless early mornings, post night shift pick ups, the constant support, and the many journeys to training.

“And to my wife, thank you for putting up with the hot pool balconies, the constant tiredness, the endless routine, and the protein-induced 💨. Your support through it all has meant everything to me.

“I’m excited for what the future holds next. Swimming will always be a huge part of my life, and I’ll forever be grateful for everything this sport has given me.

“Thank you 💙”

Litchfield, whose three-time Olympic finalist Max Litchfield is still competing, broke through with a 200m IM bronze and 200 IM silver at the 2017 and 2019 World University Games, respectively.

Two years later at the 2021 European Championships, the West Yorkshire-born athlete collected a trio of relay medals, including gold in the mixed 4x200m free and medley events.

He also retires as a two-time World Championships medalist, earning 4x200m free bronze in 2022, which was upgraded to gold a year later at the 2023 edition.

On the Olympic front, the versatile ace was a member of the prelims of the men’s 4x100m free relay and also raced in the 200m IM in Tokyo. At the 2024 Games, Litchfield raced on the men’s 4x100m medley relay and mixed medley relay.