Ryan Lochte announced that he voluntarily entered a rehabilitation facility following allegations from his estranged wife concerning drug use in front of their children.

Sharing an update with his Instagram followers, the Olympic athlete expressed his happiness about achieving 54 days of sobriety. He explained that after a challenging incident in 2023, he became depressed and isolated, which led to substance abuse.

Lochte explained that he sought help at a Florida rehab center, where the staff has supported him in recognizing that drugs are a distraction rather than a solution. He reports feeling clearer, motivated, and optimistic about his future.

His confession follows a court claim by his wife, Kayla Lochte, who requested sole custody of their three children. She accused him of inhaling nitrous oxide in front of their kids and found evidence of drug paraphernalia around their home, including in their children’s bedrooms and bathrooms. She also alleged that Lochte would often fall asleep during the day, sometimes while caring for the children, and was found passed out in his car after dropping them off at school.

In court documents, Kayla further claimed she discovered empty bags of cocaine in their residence and believed Ryan had consumed most of the drugs. She insisted she saw him inhaling nitrous oxide in front of a child and had evidence of recent failed drug tests, asserting that his behavior made him unfit for shared parenting.

Lochte responded to these accusations, confirming his struggles with substance abuse but denying any drug use around the children or while driving. He explained that during moments of overwhelm, he sometimes stayed outside in his vehicle to avoid toxic environments.

He expressed regret over the public disclosure of their issues and emphasized his focus on recovery and parenting. He stated his intention to keep his children’s wellbeing his top priority as he continues his rehabilitation process.