If you’re following any athlete news, you may have seen some big-named stars retiring recently. For many athletes, retirement can be a scary thing. However, it’s important to remember that retirement is a process. It’s very rare for an athlete to simply retire one day and never play again. That’s why it’s so important to prepare for retirement and seek support in the transition.
Former U.S. women’s soccer star Alex Morgan announced her retirement on Thursday, after scoring 123 goals for the USWNT over the course of her career. During her announcement, she reflected on her legacy and how playing with legends like Mia Hamm and Abby Wambach were formative experiences for her.
Having a support system in place can be critical for athletes who are planning on retiring early, especially from a high-level sport. For many Olympic athletes, chasing gold is not only emotionally taxing but also financially draining. The costs of elite training and equipment can add up quickly, and forgoing regular employment to train around the clock can often leave families struggling financially. It’s not uncommon for Olympians to report living on food stamps or having credit card debt in the early stages of retirement.
Having the right support system in place can help athletes prepare for and manage these financial strains. It’s also helpful to be aware that these emotional and financial strains aren’t just common among professional athletes. These strains can affect amateur athletes as well, and it’s important to recognize them so that athletes can be more prepared for when they decide to hang up their spikes.