Katie Ledecky’s Presidential Medal of Freedom Celebration Joined by Michael Phelps and Swimming Community

Celebrating American excellence, President Biden bestowed the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom upon a diverse array of luminaries. 19 recipients each a luminary in their own light were presented with the honor. From political power to athletic prowess, all shone brightly in the ceremony. The list of recipients included names like Nancy Pelosi, Katie Ledecky, John Kerry, and others. 

Yet, amidst the glittering constellation, one name stood out for American sports enthusiasts. One of the most decorated female swimmers in history who has won six Olympic gold for her country received the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Katie Ledecky has been awarded with the Medal of Freedom by the POTUS. Michael Phelps, the storied titan of swimming lore, took to social media to extend his heartfelt congratulations to the incomparable Katie Ledecky.

Katie Ledecky honored by President Biden and applauded by Michael Phelps

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is USA’s highest civilian award. Personalities who have made extraordinary contributions and have taken the country to the zenith are awarded the Medal of Freedom. Katie Genevieve Ledecky has not only won endless medals for the US but has fulfilled the dreams of a nation. She holds a world record of winning 16 gold medals in the World Aquatic Championships. 

Ledecky is the world record holder for women’s 800-meter and 1500-meter freestyle swimming. Besides these, she has won six individual Olympic golds, the most in history for a female swimmer. Katie Ledecky took to her Instagram and shared the precious moments of her receiving the medal from US President Joe Biden.

She captioned the post, “Thank You Mr. President @potus and everyone at the @whitehouse for this honor and an incredibly special day!”. To congratulate the global swimming icon, another titan took to Instagram to congratulate Ledecky. Michael Phelps who holds the all-time record for Olympic gold in swimming shared Ledecky’s post in his Instagram story. The Flying Fish congratulating Ledecky wrote, “Congrats @katieledecky!!”

Ledecky shattering records, inspiring generations, and eyeing Olympic glory

Katie Ledecky winning the Presidential Medal of Freedom became the first female swimmer to receive the same. While sharing her plans about the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics Ledecky said to NPR, “I hope that young girls look up to me… I hope they see that and are inspired by it, whether they’re a swimmer or not.” She also added, “I take things year by year, but right now, I definitely could see myself competing in 2028, with it being a home Olympics.”

In 2023, Ledecky earned her 16th gold medal shattering Michael Phelps’ record for most individual world swimming titles. Reflecting on the same Ledecky said, “I know Michael, I know many events he swam at meets like this. It’s an honor to even be in that same sentence.” Both Ledecky and Phelps share a deep admiration and respect for each other’s talents and accomplishments.