Kaylee McKeown makes her feelings known as national body honors Emily Seebohm's contributions to competitive swimming

Kaylee McKeown made her feelings known after Swimming Australia, the national governing body, thanked Emily Seebohm for her contributions to competitive swimming and congratulated her on a remarkable career.

On New Year’s Day, Seebohm announced her retirement from swimming on Instagram, expressing gratitude to her coaches, teammates, and family. Just a week later, the Australian Dolphins Swim Team shared a tribute to the three-time Olympic gold medalist on Instagram.

Sharing the above on her Instagram story, Kaylee McKeown congratulated Seebohm on her wonderful career and referred to her as an 'idol,' captioning the post:

“Will always be my idol ❤️ Congrats Em”

Screenshot of Kaylee McKeown’s Instagram story. Credits - kaylee_mckeown

She also commented on the post by the national team, writing:

“One of the greatest role models - hard working and a heart of gold. Deserves all the recognition in the world, her career was 🔥❤️”

Screenshot of Kaylee McKeown’s comment. Credits - IG/ @dolphinsaus

In addition to her three Olympic gold medals, Seebohm earned three silvers and one bronze across four Olympic appearances. She also won five gold, five silver, and four bronze medals at the World Championships (long course).

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Emily Seebohm presents Kaylee McKeown her gold medal in 200m backstroke at 2020 Tokyo Olympics

McKeown with teammate Emily Seebohm at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympic Games (Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images)

Kaylee McKeown bagged her second gold medal in the women’s 200m backstroke at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics following her maiden Olympic gold in the 100m backstroke. Emily Seebohm also earned a medal in the same event by collecting a bronze.

Since both achieved a podium finish in the event, Seebohm approached McKeown before the medal ceremony to ask if she could present her with the 200m backstroke gold medal. Later, on Instagram, she reflected on the moment, explaining why it was a meaningful moment for her after presenting the award, writing:

“I asked Kaylee before the medal ceremony if I could present her the gold medal, she has been an absolute legend not just this meet but for years. I’ve watched her as a junior to being in her race when she breaks world records. Kaylee, you are truly the most amazing humble beautiful person and giving you your medal and sharing the podium with you goes down in history as one of my favourite moments in swimming! ❤️”

McKeown swam a remarkable time of 2:04.68 to achieve this feat, ahead of Canada’s Kylie Masse (2:05.42) and Emily Seebohm (2:06.17).