Aussie Olympics star Kaylee McKeown BANS herself from an act millions of Aussies do every day as she chases gold in Paris

Australian swimming sensation Kaylee McKeown has decided to refrain from posting on social media as she sets her sights on gold at the Paris Olympics.

The 23-year-old, who has already clinched gold in the 100m and 200m backstroke as well as being part of the victorious women’s medley relay team, is now adding the 200m medley event to her lineup, where she currently holds the year’s fastest time.

To sharpen her focus, McKeown is putting social media on hold during the Paris Games.

McKeown aspires to accomplish the rare feat of winning three individual gold medals, a record previously held solely by fellow Australian swimming legend Shane Gould.

She will also participate in the medley relays, presenting her with the possibility of matching teammate Emma McKeon’s four golds from the Tokyo Olympics.

Nonetheless, McKeown is grappling with inner anxieties as she strives to maintain her focus.

To enhance her concentration, she has already cut herself off from social media more than three days ahead of her first heat.

‘I won’t be on socials this week,’ she texted from Paris. ‘Thank you all for the support so far.’

Australian swimming star Kaylee McKeown has shunned social media at the Paris Olympics

The 23-year-old is aiming to become the first Aussie since Shane Gould to win three individual Olympic gold medals at a single Games

This decision coincides with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) easing social media guidelines for athletes.

Earlier this year, the IOC declared that athletes have the liberty to share photos, audio, and video clips of up to two minutes on their social media platforms.

This new policy enables athletes to engage with a global audience as never seen before.

Previously, Jamaican sprinter Elaine Thompson-Herah encountered temporary restrictions on Instagram during the Tokyo Games after posting videos of her performances.

 McKeown is also competing in the relays, giving her a chance to equal or beat Emma McKeon’s four medals at a single Olympics

In the past, the IOC had asserted that broadcasters holding rights had the exclusive rights to distribute content, prompting athletes to share content solely from these broadcasters.

McKeown’s impressive accolades include a gold medal in the 4x100m medley relay and a bronze in the mixed 4x100m medley relay at the Tokyo Games, in addition to her two solo backstroke golds. Heading into Paris, she aims to defend her titles and perform well in the 200m medley.

Reflecting on her personal development, McKeown acknowledged a notable difference in her approach compared to the Tokyo Games.

‘As you mature, you learn and grow,’ she remarked. ‘From the last Olympics to this one, I’ve gained a lot of knowledge and experience … I’m more mature and better at managing my emotions.’