'Didn't expect it to blow up': Ariarne Titmus reflects on her shock career announcement in first outing as a retired athlete

Exclusive: Olympic champion Ariarne Titmus isn't your average retiree.

The four-time gold medallist, who stunned the swimming world when she announced her abrupt retirement earlier this month, now has an open social calendar for the first time in years.

Speaking to nine.com.au at the 2025 Derby Day at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne, Titmus, 25, said she "can't believe" the response to her news.

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"It's all starting to sink in and I just can't believe the reception that I've had. I just didn't expect it to blow up as big as it did," she said.

"When you're in it, you don't realise what you've done and [now I am] actually getting to celebrate my entire career and realising what I've achieved."

Titmus happily declared that the Spring Racing carnival is her debut event as a former Olympian.

It's also her first major foray out into Melbourne's social scene since stepping away from competitive swimming.

"This is my first event where I'm a retired athlete," she said.

"I'm excited just to have a bit of fun today. I'm actually going to really enjoy myself."

Titmus also went public with her new partner Mack earlier this year.

The Tasmanian-born athlete – who has lived in Brisbane since she was a teenager – also confirmed she has now moved to Melbourne for love.

"I actually just moved to Melbourne because he's a Melbourne boy, so no more long distance, which is great," Titmus said.

"I have more time now, but maybe a few holidays next year [too] and actually just living life a little bit."

As for what's next for a retired athlete in her mid-20s, Titmus is weighing up her options – and there's plenty of them.

Like other retired sports champions, she could find work in the media or on the events circuit.

"I've dabbled in TV and I do a lot of keynote speaking, so I have more time for that now," she added.

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