Australian Olympian Cathy Freeman, and her husband, James Murch, have announced their separation after 15 years of marriage. The couple, who share a daughter, released a joint statement to the Herald Sun confirming the news, emphasising their commitment to co-parenting.
“After 15 years of marriage, we have unfortunately separated. We continue co-parenting and this is our greatest priority,” the statement read.
Freeman, who won a gold medal in the 400 metres at the Sydney 2000 Olympics, and Murch, who has been involved in sports management, also addressed their ongoing professional relationship.
“We continue sharing a professional and working partnership through Estrella Sports Management,” they said.
The couple asked for privacy during this time, highlighting that this is a personal matter.
“Given this is a personal matter we would greatly appreciate you respecting our privacy and we won’t be making any further comment,” they added.
Freeman and Murch got married in 2009 at Spray Farm on Victoria’s Bellarine Peninsula, and they welcomed their daughter, Ruby, in 2011.
Freeman is renowned for her starring role in the Sydney 2000 Olympics Opening Ceremony when she lit the cauldron, and her unforgettable gold medal victory in the 400m, that is still remembered as one of Australia’s proudest moments.