Ryan Lochte’s wife Kayla Rae Reid has filed for divorce, the model shared in an Instagram post on Wednesday.
The former Playboy model explained that it was her decision to end their marriage of seven years, calling it “one of the most painful” seasons of her life.
“Earlier this year, I made the hard decision to end my marriage after deep prayer and reflection,” Reid wrote, including an image of her sitting outside. “I hold marriage in the highest regard, so this has been one of the most painful, revealing, and challenging seasons of my life. I’ve been hesitant to share until I could do so from a place of healing — not from fresh, open wounds.
“Sometimes we face trials we didn’t choose or see coming. And in those moments, we’re forced to make the hardest decisions to protect our peace, our children, and our future. I’ve come to the understanding that staying isn’t always the most loving decision someone can make. For me, leaving was an act of love — for those around me and for myself.
“Living with transparency and authenticity has been how I have grown into the person I am today, and I’ll continue to do so — while also protecting the parts of this journey that are private and unfolding in uncharted territory.”
Reid reshared her post ot her Instagram Story, writing, “Time to exhale” with a bandaged heart emoji.
Court records showed that Reid filed for divorce from the retired swimmer on March 26, according to People.
Reid added that she’s giving herself “grace” as she moves forward.
“Your prayers and continued support mean the world to me right now,” she said.
Lochte, a 12-time Olympic medalist, shares three children with Reid: son Caiden Zane, who turns 8 on June 8, and daughters Liv Rae, turning 7 on June 17, and Georgia June, turning 2 on June 22.
The 40-year-old proposed in 2016 and they tied the knot two years later.