Who Is Molly Gillihan? All About Ryan Lochte’s Girlfriend as Couple Moves In Together

Olympic swimming legend Ryan Lochte has started a new chapter in his life. In early 2026, he confirmed that he has moved in with his girlfriend, Molly Gillihan, marking a major step forward after a difficult personal period last year.

The former Olympic champion described the move as a fresh beginning. After his 2025 divorce and personal struggles, Lochte says he has found stability, understanding, and shared values with Gillihan. Public interest has since grown around who Molly Gillihan is and how their relationship developed.

Who Is Molly Gillihan?

Molly Gillihan is a kindergarten teacher who comes from the Midwestern United States. She was previously married to a doctor based in Missouri. Her divorce was finalised in 2024.

She is also a mother of three children. Her family includes two daughters, Layla and Maggie, and a son named Oliver. Gillihan balances her professional life with raising her children, a responsibility she shares in common with Lochte.

Why Ryan Lochte Praises Molly Gillihan

Ryan Lochte has openly spoken about Gillihan’s personality and character. He has said her patience, kindness, and honesty played a key role in their bond.

As a teacher and a mother, Gillihan is known for her calm nature. Lochte has described her as someone who stays true to herself and brings emotional balance into his life.

A Blended Family of Six Children

Both Lochte and Gillihan are parents, which helped them connect quickly. Lochte shares three children with his former wife, Kayla Rae Reid. Together, the couple now care for six children under one blended family structure.

Lochte has said the children have formed a strong bond. According to him, moving in together felt like the right decision for the entire family, not just for the couple.

How Ryan Lochte and Molly Gillihan Met

The couple first met at their children’s school in Gainesville, Florida. Lochte has clarified that their relationship began after his separation from his ex-wife.

He strongly denied rumours of infidelity. Lochte said he was the one who pursued Gillihan and that their relationship started only after he had moved out and begun living independently.

They made their relationship public in July 2025, when Lochte shared photos with Gillihan during the Fourth of July weekend. Since then, she and their children have regularly appeared on his social media.

Why Ryan Lochte and Kayla Rae Reid Separated

Lochte’s new relationship comes less than a year after his divorce from model Kayla Rae Reid, whom he married in 2018. Reid filed for divorce in March 2025.

While neither party shared full details, the separation followed a period of personal challenges. Lochte later admitted he had not been a good husband and said he remains committed to improving himself.

A New Start in 2026

By moving in together, Ryan Lochte and Molly Gillihan have taken a significant step forward. The swimmer has described this phase as one of growth, responsibility, and renewed focus on family life.

For Lochte, 2026 represents a chance to rebuild and move ahead with clarity and purpose.