PARIS - American swimmer Katie Ledecky has solidified her place in Olympic history by becoming the most decorated American woman in the Olympics. With a silver medal in the women's 4x200 meter relay event on Thursday, Ledecky secured her 13th Olympic medal, surpassing swimmers Natalie Coughlin, Jenny Thompson, and Dara Torres.

Ledecky, aged 27, now holds a remarkable tally of eight golds, four silvers, and one bronze in her Olympic career. Her eight gold medals bring her just one step away from the women's record held by Larisa Latynina, a Soviet Union gymnast who achieved her final Olympics in Tokyo back in 1964.

Not only has Ledecky made history in the American Olympic context, but she has also become the most decorated woman in the history of swimming, regardless of nationality. Her exceptional achievement places her second only to the legendary American swimmer Michael Phelps, who holds the record for the most Olympic medals with a staggering 28.

Although Ledecky did not address the media after Thursday's race due to her participation in the 800-meter freestyle qualifying event on Friday, she expressed her determination to continue swimming and hopes to represent Team USA in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. Her sheer dominance in the 1,500-meter freestyle event earlier in the week exemplified her unwavering dedication to the sport.

Teammates of Ledecky, such as Emma Gemmel and Claire Weinstein, expressed their awe and admiration for their fellow swimmer's journey. Gemmel, who idolized Ledecky since childhood, remarked on the excitement of being part of Ledecky's remarkable career. Weinstein, who swam the first leg in Thursday's relay, described the honor of competing alongside Ledecky and contributing to her incredible journey.

In the women's 4x200 meter freestyle relay, Ledecky and her teammates were unable to secure the gold, as Australia emerged victorious. Mollie O'Callaghan and Ariarne Titmus led the Australian team, building a substantial lead that could not be overcome. Despite Ledecky's valiant effort on the third leg, Australia maintained their advantage, and Titmus sealed their victory with an Olympic record time of 7:38.08.

However, Ledecky, along with Gemmell, Paige Madden, and Weinstein, fought fiercely and clinched the silver medal for the United States with a time of 7:40.86. China's quartet, consisting of Yang Junxuan, Li Bingjie, Ge Chutong, and Liu Yaxin, secured the bronze medal with a time of 7:42.34.

As Ledecky continues her quest for success in the upcoming individual events, her exceptional achievements and relentless pursuit of excellence have etched her name in Olympic history. With her eyes set on future Olympics, Ledecky's legacy as a formidable force in swimming continues to inspire generations to come.