He said he had ‘no other choice.’
Hunter Armstrong, a standout swimmer on the U.S. Olympic team who secured gold and silver medals at the 2024 Summer Olympics, emphasizes the importance of his faith in God. He shares that during some of his life’s toughest moments, turning to God was his only option.
At the Paris Games, Armstrong clinched a gold medal with a 46.75-second swim in the third leg of the 4×100 freestyle relay, achieving the fastest split for his team. He also contributed to the U.S. team’s silver medal performance in the 4×100 medley relay.
In an interview with Baptist Press, Armstrong, who previously swam for Ohio State University and won gold in the 4×100-meter medley relay at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, reflected on his faith. “I prioritize God,” he stated. “Without Him, I wouldn’t be able to live. I could live without swimming or being an Olympian, but not without Him.” His Instagram bio highlights his faith with the phrase “GOD FIRST,” underlining his desire for his Christian beliefs to be the foremost aspect of his identity.
Armstrong candidly admits that his faith has faced challenges throughout his life. “During competition, I’ll pray and it helps for a while,” he explained to BP. “But when I don’t feel the need for Him, it can fade.” A significant life event, such as his coach moving from California to Michigan, alongside personal losses like his grandfather’s death and a breakup with a long-term girlfriend, prompted him to deepen his focus on faith.
Describing the breakup, Armstrong shared with Eleven Warriors, “It was my first serious relationship. I had plans to propose and even pre-ordered a ring. It all fell apart quickly.” The emotional strain was so intense that he struggled to get out of bed. With support from his coaches and teammates, Armstrong sought counseling and spiritual guidance, which he believes has made him a better person.
“The most significant changes in life often come from pain,” he remarked to BP. “Sometimes, God places you in a situation where turning to Him is your only option.”
His fellow swimmer, Michael Andrew, remembers praying with Armstrong during this tough period, demonstrating how to integrate faith into competition. Armstrong, now attending Bible studies with other athletes thanks to an invitation from Carson Foster, feels grateful for his journey. “I’ve faced so much this year and I’m just happy to be here,” he said. “I want to perform well, but if I don’t win medals or achieve personal bests, I’ll still be content knowing I represented myself and God well.”
Looking ahead, Armstrong plans to return to Columbus, Ohio, to coach at Ohio State and complete his degree after the Olympics.