Emma McKeon

Olympic Icon.

Emma McKeon AM is Australia’s most decorated Olympian and one of the greatest swimmers in history. Over a stellar career, she amassed 14 Olympic medals, including six golds, making her the third-most decorated swimmer and the seventh-most decorated athlete in Olympic history. 

Emma was born on May 24, 1994, in Wollongong, New South Wales and hails from a family steeped in swimming excellence. Her father, Ron McKeon, and mother, Susie McKeon (née Woodhouse), were both competitive swimmers, with Ron representing Australia at the Olympics and Susie competing at the Commonwealth Games. Her brother, David McKeon, is also an Olympian. Emma’s early promise was evident when she won one gold, one silver, and two bronze medals at the 2010 Youth Olympic Games in Singapore. 

After narrowly missing selection for the 2012 London Olympics, Emma took a brief hiatus before returning to the pool with renewed determination. She made her Olympic debut at the 2016 Rio Games, securing four medals: one gold, two silvers, and a bronze.

Her crowning achievement came at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics where she won seven medals—four gold and three bronze—becoming the first female swimmer and the first Australian to win seven medals at a single Olympics. She continued her exceptional performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, adding another gold and two more podium finishes to her tally.

Beyond the Olympics, Emma excelled at the World Aquatics Championships, earning 20 medals, including five gold. At the Commonwealth Games, she amassed a record 20 medals, 14 of which were gold, solidifying her status as one of the most successful athletes in the event’s history.

In November 2024, at the age of 30, Emma announced her retirement from competitive swimming, expressing gratitude for her journey and a desire to inspire other athletes. Emma’s legacy is not only defined by her medal haul but also by her embodiment of perseverance, excellence, humility, and sportsmanship. She remains a role model for aspiring athletes and a celebrated figure in Australian sports history.

In retirement, Emma is taking the opportunity to enjoy her passions outside of swimming – spending time with family and friends, exploring other cultures and cuisines, coffee, sleeping in and importantly, imparting her knowledge and lived experiences with the next generation of young athletes.

For ambassador, speaking and media opportunities – please contact Nikki Mathias, nikki@ncmanagement.com.au