Sarah Sjostrom will skip competing in 2025.
The Swedish swimmer has no plans to participate in 2025, but will continue training.
## What's Next for Sarah Sjostrom?
She eyes the L.A. Olympics in 2028, hoping to participate in her sixth-straight Olympic Games.
In an interview with Dagens Nyheter, Sjostrom stated, “I have no competitions planned.
I will train, but at a low load and then slowly increase.
## Why the Break Matters
Sjostrom's decision comes after a terrific season, winning her sixth consecutive world title in the 50 butterfly at the 2024 Worlds.
She also won her first Olympic gold in 100 free in 52.16 at the Paris Olympics.
## Impact on the Swimming World
Her absence in 2025 will break her extraordinary World Championships streak, but provide a chance for other athletes to showcase their skills.
Team U.S. swimmers, including Gretchen Walsh, will be interesting to watch in both butterfly and freestyle events.
Torri Huske will look forward to claiming her second gold in the 100 fly event after finishing third at 2023 Worlds.
## A Look at Sarah Sjostrom's Legacy
Sjostrom can join the legacy of United States' Anthony Ervin, who won the individual gold in 50 free at the Rio Olympics at 35.
Dara Torres powered the USA's gold medal feat in the 4x100-meter relay race at the Sydney Olympics at 33.
Sjostrom will be 34 when the 2028 Olympics are held in Los Angeles.
Most swimmers usually decide to retire from the sport in their early 30s, like Michael Phelps, who left competitive swimming at 31.
Australia's Cate Campbell announced her retirement at 32 after failing to qualify for the Paris Olympics.
Sjostrom's longevity is one of her main strengths, and she has set records in multiple events, including 100 free, 50 free, 50 fly, and 100 fly.
She has claimed a total of 14 individual gold medals at World Championships.
Sjostrom has participated in every long-course World Championships since her debut in 2009 and achieved a podium finish in almost every meet.
Chinese sensation Zhang Yufei will also eye her first gold in the 50 fly and 50 free events.
Sjostrom's absence will provide opportunities for other athletes, but her return in 2028 is highly anticipated.