When the latest athlete retirement news hits the airwaves, the world usually wonders what the next chapter will hold for these famous athletes. Sometimes, however, they decide to “un-retire” and come back better than ever. These four athletes thought they were ready to throw in the towel, but ended up coming out stronger.
The US women’s soccer star and 2024 Olympian Alex Morgan recently announced her retirement from professional play. After leading her team and the NWSL in scoring, she now plans to focus on her business and charitable endeavors. Morgan is one of the most accomplished players in the history of the sport, having earned two Olympic medals and a number of prestigious club accolades. She also played with former Olympians Mia Hamm and Abby Wambach early in her career, a mentorship that she says had a profound impact on her.
Whether it’s taking time off to pursue interests other than their sport or starting a new career, adjusting to life after sports can be challenging for elite and amateur athletes alike. A study by Dr Cavallerio of Anglia Ruskin University found that retired female gymnasts struggled to identify with their non-athletic lives and often felt like failures. To help address this, it’s crucial for sports organisations to support the transitional phases of their athletes’ post-sport careers. It’s also important for athletes to understand the tax implications of their retirement decisions and make financial savvy moves early on.