Missy Franklin’s Husband: The Inspiring Journey of Hayes Johnson
Missy Franklin, the beloved American Olympic swimmer with five gold medals to her name, is recognized not only for her athletic excellence but also for her radiant personality and inspiring resilience. While her swimming legacy is celebrated around the world, her relationship with her husband, Hayes Johnson, brings forward another equally heartwarming narrative—one rooted in friendship, support, and shared purpose. This article dives into the life of Hayes Johnson, their love story, and how their union continues to inspire fans both in and out of the swimming world.
Who Is Hayes Johnson?
Hayes Johnson is a former elite swimmer and an entrepreneur who has remained connected to the sport through leadership and advocacy. Born on January 30, 1990, in Nashville, Tennessee, Hayes showed early promise in competitive swimming, eventually swimming for the University of Texas, one of the most renowned programs in NCAA history. He competed at the national level and participated in the U.S. Olympic trials, illustrating not only his athletic talent but also his dedication to a sport that shaped much of his identity.
Post-swimming, Hayes transitioned into business and is now the president of Swimmingly, a company focused on managing swim meets more efficiently through technology. This role allows him to remain close to the sport he loves, while also contributing to grassroots swimming communities around the country.
The Origin of Their Relationship
Missy Franklin and Hayes Johnson’s first meeting took place at the 2010 Golden Goggle Awards, an annual celebration of U.S. Swimming’s top athletes. At the time, Missy was a 15-year-old rising star, and Hayes was a 20-year-old NCAA swimmer. Their initial interaction was playful—Missy challenged Hayes to a dance-off, a lighthearted moment that sparked a friendship rather than a romance.
They kept in touch casually over the next few years but drifted apart after the 2012 Olympic Trials. In the years that followed, both faced their own highs and lows. Hayes pursued his education and career, while Missy reached the peak of her swimming career before facing career-threatening shoulder injuries and mental health challenges. They reconnected unexpectedly in 2016, after Hayes reached out to Missy to check in during a difficult period in her life.
A Bond Rekindled
What started as a simple check-in became a three-hour FaceTime call. That conversation reignited their friendship, and over time, they began dating. The timing proved fortuitous, as Missy was navigating one of the most difficult stretches of her life—her injuries were mounting, her Olympic performance in Rio fell short of expectations, and she was publicly grappling with anxiety and depression.
Hayes became a steady and supportive presence during that turbulent time. Their relationship was built not on fame or status but on a deep emotional connection and a shared understanding of the challenges that come with elite athleticism. Friends and family members noted that the two complemented each other in ways that went beyond swimming—bringing out joy, laughter, and perspective in one another.
Engagement and Wedding
After two years of dating, Hayes proposed to Missy in September 2018. She shared the engagement with her fans on Instagram, her joy evident in every word. “I’ve been dreaming of this day since I was a little girl,” she wrote. “And it was even more perfect than I could’ve imagined.”
The couple married on September 14, 2019, in a beautiful outdoor ceremony in Colorado. The wedding was intimate and heartfelt, reflecting their personalities rather than Hollywood-style glamour. Surrounded by family, friends, and many former swimming teammates, the ceremony was a celebration of enduring love, mutual respect, and emotional healing.
Family Life and Parenthood
Missy has long spoken about her desire to be a mother. That dream came true when the couple welcomed their first child, a daughter named Sarah Caitlin Johnson, on August 11, 2021. Missy described motherhood as “the most humbling and beautiful experience” of her life.
In March 2025, the couple welcomed their second daughter, Chase Campbell Johnson. Through their social media posts and interviews, Missy and Hayes have shared glimpses of their parenting journey—highlighting the chaos, humor, exhaustion, and joy that come with raising young children. Despite the demands of family life, both continue to prioritize their professional goals and community impact.
Career Shifts and Shared Purpose
After retiring from competitive swimming in 2018 due to chronic shoulder pain and mental health struggles, Missy transitioned into roles that allow her to give back to the sport and to young athletes. She is involved with the USA Swimming Foundation, mentors younger swimmers, and frequently speaks about the importance of mental health in sports.
Hayes, as president of Swimmingly, has dedicated his career to making the swimming world more accessible and manageable for families and clubs. His tech-driven approach has modernized how swim meets are timed, tracked, and reported. Together, Missy and Hayes advocate for athlete well-being, youth development, and balanced living—serving as role models for a life beyond medals and records.
Public Image and Shared Values
Missy and Hayes are adored by fans not just for their accomplishments but for how they live out their values. They are down-to-earth, faith-oriented, and deeply committed to building a family rooted in love and authenticity. They often talk about the importance of communication, empathy, and laughter in their marriage, and they share their highs and lows with honesty.
Both continue to influence the swimming world, but on their own terms. They have chosen to live with intention, focusing on their growing family, community work, and emotional well-being. In doing so, they’ve become beacons of hope and inspiration for young couples, athletes, and anyone navigating transitions in life.
Conclusion
The love story between Missy Franklin and Hayes Johnson is one of timing, trust, and transformation. From their early days as young swimmers to now as partners, parents, and advocates, their journey reflects the power of resilience, deep connection, and purpose. As they continue to inspire through their personal and professional paths, they remain a cherished couple in the hearts of many—and a reminder that real success often starts at home.
Featured image source: Instagram
