Sarah Sjostrom Claims Freestyle Golds in Paris Before Taking Time Off for Motherhood

Swedish swimmer Sarah Sjostrom towed the world’s recent swimming championships in Paris, winning 6 gold medals. She won gold medals in the 50m and 100m freestyle events! Today, at 31 years of age, Sjostrom continues to be one of the most gifted swimmers in the world. That said, she has recently revealed her intention to take a season off as she prepares to bring her first child into the world.

With her performances, Sjostrom has established a long and legendary career for herself in women’s swimming. She has since developed into a world-class swimmer, particularly in the 50m ‘fly. Additionally, she currently holds the world record in this event. She ran her personal best of 24.43 seconds at the 2014 Swedish Championships in July. From 2015 onward, she’s ruled the 50m fly at world championships. Since then, she hasn’t suffered a single loss in this competition.

Sjostrom’s announcement that she will retire from competitive swimming was made as she prepares for becoming a mother. She has every intention of returning to the sport. Her long-term goal is to compete in the Los Angeles Games in 2028. Her contributions to swimming have inspired many, including rising star Gretchen Walsh, who recently made headlines herself with her performance in the pool.

To be honest, I think that the second woman ever under 25 seconds is a pretty neat stat. I have ultimately had my sights on that,” Walsh said, alluding to Sjostrom’s stamp on the event. To which Walsh added her appreciation for Sjostrom, saying, “I’m just really pleased with the swim. From our perspective, that’s a hugely missed opportunity there’s no doubt about it. I’m just going to be really enjoying walking in the footsteps of my idol, Sarah Sjostrom. It is an honor to be even mentioned in the same sentence as her!

Sjostrom leaves the sport with this significant milestone, her achievements will serve as a standard for competitors to come. She plans to return even better for the 2028 Olympic Games. None more so than her devoted fans and fellow athletes who join us in hoping for a speedy return to the water.