Ryan Lochte recalls ‘sinking back into depression’ after nearly fatal car accident

Ryan Lochte says his nearly fatal car accident one year ago left him “sinking back into depression.”

The former Olympic swimmer, 40, shared an update on his healing journey via Instagram Thursday as he marked the anniversary of the car accident that “nearly took everything” from him, saying his “life changed forever” on that day.

“A car accident nearly took everything from me — and for a long time, it felt like it had,” Lochte wrote alongside a video of him playing in the pool with his children.

“I struggled to find myself again, sinking back into depression and doubting my worth as a father, a husband, and the person I knew I could be. But I didn’t face this journey alone.”

“Thanks to the love and support of the incredible people in my life, I began to rise from that darkness.” Lochte continued.

“They reminded me of my strength when I couldn’t see it myself. Today, I’m proud to say I’m not just surviving — I’m fighting.”

“Fighting for my family, for my dreams, and for the life I know I’m meant to live” pushed the famous swimmer to overcome the obstacles presented.

“This year has taught me that setbacks don’t define us — our comebacks do,” he said, adding, “Here’s to growth, resilience, and the power of love and community. Thank you to everyone who stood by me. 🙏💪 #Resilience #Grateful #OneYearStronger #FighterInLife.”

Lochte was injured while picking up his children from school when he accidentally ran into a parked trash truck in the middle of a busy street.

In August, Lochte and wife Kayla Rae Reed — who share three children — gave a separate update on Lochte’s journey as Reed praised her husband’s dedication to his recovery.

“Life’s setbacks may knock you down, but they set the stage for an even stronger comeback!” Reed, 33, said.

“This guy has been putting in the work one step at a time, literally! 🙏”