Australian Olympic swimmer Brianna Throssell has officially declared her retirement from competitive swimming.
A key member of the Australian relay team over the past decade, Throssell played an instrumental role in last year’s gold-medal win for the women’s 4x200m freestyle team, where they set a new Olympic benchmark of 7:30.07 at the Paris 2024 Games.
After her triumph in Paris, Throssell decided against pursuing another Olympic cycle to Los Angeles 2028.
Ariarne Titmus and Brianna Throssell celebrate following gold in the women’s 4x200m freestyle relay final at Paris 2024. Getty
With a desire to create a life beyond the pool, the 29-year-old has chosen to take a step back from competitive swimming.
During her career, Throssell amassed 39 international medals, including four at the Olympics.
Specialising in relays, all of Throssell’s Olympic medals and 18 of her World Championship medals stem from relay events.
Although she briefly considered competing in the upcoming World Aquatics Championships this July in Singapore and the Glasgow Commonwealth Games in 2026, Throssell ultimately opted to prioritise her future beyond swimming after a whirlwind few months of personal developments.
Having joined Deloitte’s Mergers and Acquisitions team in Melbourne, Throssell expressed enthusiasm about applying her business degree in a practical setting.
“I just knew it was time,” she shared in a statement from Swimming Australia.
Brianna Throssell, Mollie O’Callaghan and Lani Pallister during the women’s 4x200m freestyle relay final. Getty
“I will always treasure the memories, friendships, and experiences … it’s been an extraordinary journey, but I am now ready to embark on a new chapter.
“The lessons I’ve gained—about perseverance, teamwork, and striving for excellence—will stick with me as I progress, but I am prepared, and it was truly special to end my career the way I did,” she added.
Partnering with Mollie O’Callaghan, Lani Pallister, and Ariarne Titmus, Throssell clinched her second gold medal and contributed to Australia’s fifth swimming gold at the Paris Games, finalising her Dolphins career on a high note.
“I couldn’t have wished for a more perfect ending to my career. My passion for the sport remains strong, and I hope to inspire the next generation, as swimming has profoundly shaped my life. I have countless people to thank, including my parents, Dean (Boxall), Josh (Milner), and all the Dolphins. I feel incredibly grateful.”
Dolphins head coach Rohan Taylor commended Throssell’s impact on the Australian swim team.
“Brianna has been a tremendous asset to this Dolphins swim squad,” he remarked.
Gold medallists in the women’s 4x200m freestyle relay final—Mollie O’Callaghan, Lani Pallister, Brianna Throssell, and Ariarne Titmus. Luke Hales/Getty
“She is an athlete who consistently pushed herself and sought ways to improve.
“Bri will probably tell you that her gold in Paris was a highlight, but for me, her individual medal (at the 2024 World Championships) in Doha was particularly memorable. It was a well-deserved reward for a true professional.
“She made significant changes, moving from Western Australia to the Sunshine Coast and then to Dean (Boxall) at St Peters, and gave it her all.
“Her personal bests in the 100m and 200m freestyle were recorded during the Paris Olympic Trials at 28 years of age, showcasing her professionalism and determination.
“Many athletes have mentioned how her presence in the marshalling room for relays instilled a sense of confidence in them.
“I want to congratulate Brianna on an exceptional career and wish her all the best from everyone at Swimming Australia.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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