In July 2013, Meilutyte became the first female swimmer from Lithuania to break a world record. She clocked 1:04.35 in the 100m breaststroke semifinals at the World Championships in Barcelona. This achievement made her the youngest female to win both Olympic and World Championship golds in the event.

Her success continued at the 2012 World Short Course Championships in Istanbul, where she won gold in the women's 50m breaststroke. This victory marked Lithuania's first medal in the history of the event.

Challenges and Comebacks

Meilutyte faced a significant setback in September 2015 when she broke her elbow after falling off her bicycle. The injury required surgery, delaying her return to competition. Despite this, she made a triumphant comeback just before the 2016 European Championships, winning gold in the 100m breaststroke.

In April 2018, Meilutyte revealed that she had been battling depression since the 2016 Rio Olympics. She credited her family and friends for helping her cope with the condition, although she acknowledged that it remained an ongoing struggle.

Life Beyond Swimming

Meilutyte retired from competitive swimming in May 2019. Her post-swimming life has been marked by various personal and professional developments. Raised primarily by her grandmother in Lithuania, she moved to Plymouth, England, in 2010 to join her father. Her mother had tragically passed away in a car accident when Meilutyte was just four years old.

After training stints in Australia and the United States, Meilutyte settled in Los Angeles with coach Dave Salo at Trojan Swim Club in March 2018. Her life story was also chronicled in a film titled 'Ruta,' released in March 2018.

Philosophy and Inspirations

Meilutyte's sporting philosophy is encapsulated by her motto: "Every small or big victory gives you strength and self-confidence." She has often cited US swimmer Rebecca Soni as her idol, drawing inspiration from Soni's achievements and dedication to the sport.

Fluent in both English and Lithuanian, Meilutyte's journey from a young swimmer to an Olympic champion is a testament to her resilience and determination. Her story continues to inspire many aspiring athletes around the world.