Katie Ledecky etched her name further into the Olympic history books on Saturday, claiming her ninth career gold medal at the Paris Olympics. The American swimming icon achieved this milestone by winning her fourth consecutive women’s 800m freestyle title, an unprecedented feat in the event.
Ledecky touched the wall in 8:11.04 at La Defense Arena, finishing 1.25 seconds ahead of Australian silver medalist Ariarne Titmus. Paige Madden secured bronze for the United States.
This ninth gold medal from four Olympic Games elevates Ledecky to a shared position atop the all-time record for female Olympians alongside former Soviet gymnast Larisa Latynina. Furthermore, she joins fellow American swimming legend Michael Phelps as the only swimmers to win four Olympic golds in the same event.
Ledecky’s dominant performance once again showcases her exceptional talent and unwavering determination, solidifying her status as one of the greatest swimmers of all time.