Swimming |Two-time Olympic Champion | World Record Holder
Few athletes embody the green and gold like Ariarne Titmus. Known as “The Terminator,” she has become a symbol of grit, determination and humble success in the world of swimming. Born and raised in Launceston, Tasmania, her love for swimming blossomed at a young age.
In 2015, her family made the bold decision to move to Brisbane, providing Ariarne with access to world-class training facilities and setting the stage for her rise to greatness.
As a Commonwealth Games Medallist and Harvey Norman Ambassador, Ariarne is supporting the next generation of Commonwealth Games athletes backed by Harvey Norman. She continues to inspire Australians throughout her successful journey both in and out of the pool.
At a Glance
Sport: Swimming
Disciplines: Current 200m Freestyle, 400m Freestyle, 800m Freestyle
Career Highlights and Achievements
- Olympic Games
Tokyo 2020 – Gold (200m Freestyle), Gold (400m Freestyle), Silver (800m Freestyle), Bronze (4x200m Freestyle Relay).
Paris 2024 – Gold (400m Freestyle), becoming the first Australian woman since Dawn Fraser in 1964 to win back-to-back Golds in this event. Gold (4x200m Freestyle Relay), Silver (200m Freestyle), Silver (800m Freestyle)
- WorldAquatics Championships
o Multiple-time World Champion across 200m and 400m Freestyle
o 2019 Gwangju – Gold (400m Freestyle – defeating Katie Ledecky) - Commonwealth Games
o 2018 Gold Coast – Gold (400m Freestyle), Gold (4x200m Freestyle Relay), Silver (200m Freestyle)
o 2022 Birmingham – Gold (200m Freestyle), Gold (400m Freestyle), Gold (4x200m Freestyle Relay) - Records & Honours
o Former world record holder – Women’s 400m Freestyle
o Multiple-time Australian Swimmer of the Year
o Widely regarded as one of Australia’s greatest middle-distance swimmers
Favourite Quote
“Be the best you can be.”
Making her Mark
Ariarne’s international breakthrough came early. At just 17, she announced herself at the 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast, winning gold in the 400m freestyle and quickly establishing herself as a rising force in global swimming.
Her defining moment soon followed at the 2019 World Championships in Gwangju, where she stunned the swimming world by defeating American legend Katie Ledecky in the 400m freestyle – ending Ledecky’s years-long dominance in the event and cementing Ariarne as a genuine world champion. The rivalry reached its peak in a race so anticipated it was dubbed the “Race of the Century,” as she surged past Ledecky to defend her Olympic title.
Ariarne continued to make a statement at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Walking away with four medals, including two gold, further securing her place among Australia’s greatest athletes.
Rising on the World Stage
Momentum continued to build as Ariarne entered the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. Competing under immense pressure, she delivered one of the most memorable performances in Australian swimming history.
She captured gold in both the 200m and 400m freestyle, along with a silver and bronze in relay and distance events – firmly establishing herself among the elite. Her emotional celebrations resonated with fans across the country, reflecting the dedication and sacrifice behind each result.
“Representing Australia has been the greatest honour of my life”.
“I always wanted to make sure that every time I stood behind the block, I could do Australia proud.”
Reaching New Heights
Following her Olympic success, Ariarne continued to dominate international competition, consistently delivering world-class performances across major championships.
Her success is underpinned by a strong mindset and appreciation for the journey:
“I always feel incredibly proud to wear the green and gold and represent my country on the world stage.”
Beyond medals, she has become a role model for aspiring athletes – demonstrating the importance of resilience, focus and self-belief at the highest level.
Beyond the Pool
Since her retirement announcement from swimming, Ariarne has embraced new challenges, including stepping into a media and commentary role where she brings fresh insight to swimming broadcasts.
“A lot of people tune in to watch swimming but don’t always understand the sport. I want to help tell those stories.”
She is also passionate about supporting the next generation of athletes and regularly shares her experiences to inspire young Australians to pursue their goals.
The seven-time Commonwealth games medallist and Harvey Norman ambassador says that the Games are a defining moment for many Australian athletes.
“The Commonwealth Games are incredibly special, they’re often where athletes make their breakthrough on a major international stage,” Titmus said.
“Having partners like Harvey Norman supporting the journey behind the scenes is so important in helping athletes have the best possible Games experience.”
Her partnership with Harvey Norman reflects that shared commitment to supporting emerging talent.
“I think Harvey Norman does an incredible job of sharing the stories of up-and-coming athletes.”
Focused, driven and grounded, Ariarne Titmus leaves a lasting legacy- one that shows what’s possible through belief, resilience and a commitment to being your best.
Ariarne has been a Harvey Norman ambassador since 2020, and her dedication and drive continue to inspire the belief that anyone, no matter where they come from, can achieve something extraordinary.