Picture this: a dreamy terrace in Tenerife, with clouds floating over lush greenery, cute little hut-like houses, and mountains standing tall in the background! Sounds like the perfect spot for a big announcement, right? Well, Sarah Sjostrom thought so too. Dressed in black workout gear, with her blonde bun perfectly in place, the Swedish swimming legend took to Instagram on February 26! But this time, not to flex her insane 25 world medals or remind everyone she’s the reigning Olympic champ in the 50 and 100-meter freestyle, but to show off something even more special. Yep, a baby bump! So… does this mean she’s pregnant and calling it quits on swimming?

“The greatest adventure of my life is about to begin,” she shared, revealing that she and her husband are expecting their first child in August. Despite her years of pushing physical limits, Sjöström admits that pregnancy has been a completely new kind of challenge. “I knew that many women experience challenges during the first trimester (and throughout pregnancy 😳), but I wasn’t prepared for just how tough it could be,” she admitted.

The past few weeks have tested the Olympic champion in ways she never expected, both mentally and physically, giving her a newfound appreciation for the strength of women. “These last few weeks have been some of the most mentally and physically challenging I have ever faced. I am more in awe than ever of what women go through. I’ve always admired the strength of women, but now I understand it on a whole new level.” Even with the ups and downs, she has managed to stay active. “Luckily, I’ve been able to swim and train on my good days.”

Well, seems like everything in the water feels slower now, she still finds a sense of harmony in each stroke, appreciating the way movement remains a natural part of her journey. And for those wondering if this means she’s retiring? Not even close. “Of course, I will fight to compete at a high level again. I’ve always been inspired by women who continue their athletic careers after pregnancy, and I think it’s curiosity that drives me. It’s not about records or medals. It’s about discovering what my body is capable of after recovering from pregnancy.” It’s clear she’s not just thinking about bouncing back—she’s determined to take on a whole new challenge in the pool.

Her ultimate goal? The Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, which would mark her sixth Olympic Games. “Thank you for all the love and support. We can’t wait to share this journey with you ❤️,” she concluded. Motherhood may be her next big adventure, but don’t count her out of the race just yet—Sarah Sjostrom is already eyeing her next comeback, and if history has taught us anything, it’s that she never backs down from a challenge. Fans are already in awe, and let’s be real, at this point, she might just race her baby to the finish line in 2028.

Fans go wild as Sarah Sjostrom drops life-changing news

Sarah Sjostrom’s big announcement had fans absolutely buzzing, and they did not hold back in the comments. “Oh, what wonderful news, Sarah! ❤️🙌 I’m so happy for you! You will do this gallant M2B 🔥 My three swimming daughters have you as an idol! You are such a brilliant role model in so many ways 😍,” one fan gushed. Another added, “Big, big, big congratulations to both of you @skierus 🍼❤️🥰,” while someone else just went full-on excitement mode: “Ohhhh YES YES YES YES !!!! Lucky charm of a lifetime! Baby!!!!!!! 😍😍😍.” Safe to say, the swimming world is hyped!

And let’s be real, this news couldn’t have come at a more perfect time. Sarah Sjostrom and her husband, Johan de Jong Skierus, just tied the knot this past October after 12 years of dating and a two-year engagement! What’s even more interesting? This comes just two months after she mentioned taking a break in 2025, fresh off what was shaping up to be yet another dominant season.

Another fan gushed, “Aw, so happy for you @sarahsjostrom! It’s the best feeling ever! Nothing beats the love you have for your baby 🥰🥰. Sometimes it’s tougher than training for the Olympics, but it’s a million times more worth it. And the love you get back can’t compare to any other achievement in life ♥️♥️. You will be the best mom!” Another chimed in, “Enjoy this wonderful journey which is starting now and lasts forever ❤️.” And let’s be real, if anyone can handle the challenges of motherhood with the same courage she brings to the pool, it’s Sarah Sjostrom.

Let’s be real, in swimming, she’s not just good, she’s legendary. She just swept gold in the 50 and 100 freestyle at Paris 2024, bringing her Olympic title count to three, along with her 100 fly gold from Rio 2016. Oh, and let’s not forget her silver in the 200 free and bronze in the 100 free at Rio, plus the silver in the 50 free at Tokyo 2021—which, by the way, she won after breaking her elbow earlier that year. Because, you know, most people take time off after an injury—Sjostrom just went and won an Olympic medal instead.

Her achievements outside the Olympics? Just as mind-blowing. She has 15 individual world titles across 50 and 100m butterfly and 50 and 100m freestyle. Moreover, she currently holds world records for the 50m freestyle (23.67), 50m butterfly (24.43), 100m freestyle (51.71) and 100m butterfly (55.48). Phew, we are tired just by reading! But there’s even more in store for her. The Swedish swimming champion Sarah Sjostrom is preparing herself for her most substantial challenge which will be becoming a parent even though everyone agrees her ability to balance Olympic dreams with motherhood appears effortless.