Extended interview: Katie Ledecky on 2024 Olympics performance, closing ceremony honor and more

Summary

In this inspiring interview, a decorated Team USA female athlete shares her Olympic experience, from the physical demands of her sport to the joy of celebrating achievements with family and friends. She reflects on her role as a trailblazer for women in sports, the camaraderie among athletes, and her journey with POTS syndrome. The athlete discusses her book 'Just Add Water,' her future aspirations, and the honor of being chosen as the flag bearer at the closing ceremonies, highlighting the importance of resilience, hard work, and the support of her team.

Takeaways

• 🏅 The athlete is enjoying the Olympics and the city atmosphere, especially being able to stay and soak it all in after their competition is done.
• 🌟 The feeling of being the most decorated female athlete of Team USA has not fully sunk in yet, but it's an honor to represent the country and win medals for Team USA.
• 💪 The athlete's neck is getting stronger from the heavy hardware and they are getting used to it, showing resilience and adaptability.
• 📚 The athlete admires the hard work of all Olympians and finds joy in celebrating their achievements, highlighting the camaraderie and mutual respect among athletes.
• 👧 The rise of female athletes and their success in various sports is a special moment, and the athlete is proud to be a part of this movement.
• 📖 The athlete has written a book, 'Just Add Water', which is a memoir of their swimming career and the support they've received throughout.
• 🤽‍♀️ Swimming is a tough sport that requires dedication and respect for the work of fellow athletes, which is evident in the camaraderie among swimmers.
• 🏊‍♀️ The athlete's POTS diagnosis is managed through careful attention to salt intake, hydration, and rest, demonstrating the ability to overcome health challenges.
• 🚩 Being chosen as the flag bearer for the closing ceremonies is a great honor, and the athlete is excited to represent the team and celebrate with them.
• 🌐 The athlete's support and inspiration come from a wide network of people, including family, friends, and coaches, who have all contributed to their success.
• 🎖️ The athlete continues to set new goals and strives for self-improvement, showing a relentless drive to get better even without immediate recognition.

Q & A

How does the athlete describe the physical sensation of wearing the heavy hardware?

The athlete describes it as initially heavy and causing some neck strain, but mentions getting used to it and experiencing a strengthening of the neck muscles over time.

What does the athlete enjoy about the current Olympics compared to previous ones?

The athlete enjoys being able to stay in the city after the competition to soak in the atmosphere and offerings of the Olympics, which is a first for them.

How does the athlete feel about being the most decorated female athlete of Team USA?

The athlete expresses that it is an honor to represent the country and that the significance of being the most decorated is slowly sinking in, but they are more focused on enjoying the moment and their career.

What does the athlete admire about the work of Olympians?

The athlete admires the hard work and dedication that all Olympians put in to reach their moments of glory and finds it fun to celebrate their achievements.

How does the athlete perceive the focus on female athletes during this Olympics?

The athlete finds it special to see female sports shine brightly and feels honored to be a part of this trend, mentioning that it's great to see strong performances from female athletes.

Who are some of the swimming legends the athlete has heard from?

The athlete has heard from swimming legends like Debbie Meyer and Chris Von Salto, with whom they are close, and also mentions seeing their good friend Schmidt in Paris.

What inspired the athlete to write their book 'Just Add Water'?

The athlete was inspired to write the book by keeping journals of their swimming career and other moments, along with having many photos and family memories to share.

How does the athlete manage their POTS diagnosis?

The athlete manages POTS by staying on top of salt intake and hydration, wearing compression, getting adequate rest, and focusing on small lifestyle adjustments to manage symptoms.

What impact does being an inspiration have on the athlete?

The athlete tries not to think about being an inspiration and focuses on being the best version of themselves, both in and out of the water, and appreciating the support from those around them.

What advice does the athlete give to youngsters interested in swimming?

The athlete advises youngsters to keep swimming, have fun with the sport, and fall in love with it, emphasizing the importance of goal setting, determination, and resilience learned from the sport.

How does the athlete feel about being chosen as the flag bearer at the closing ceremonies?

The athlete feels extremely honored and humbled to represent the team and is looking forward to celebrating with their teammates and experiencing the closing ceremony for the first time.