Olympic medalists are some of the most remarkable individuals in the world. It’s no surprise that these extraordinary athletes frequently achieve great things even after their Olympic careers. Explore the journeys of some of the greatest Olympians and discover how they are faring today.
Tara Lipinski
At just 14 years, nine months, and 10 days old, Tara Lipinski made history by claiming the title of 1997 World Figure Skating Champion. The following year, she triumphed at the 1998 Olympics, securing a gold medal and cementing her status as a skating sensation. However, upon turning professional later that same year, she faced backlash from the media, with some critics comparing her transition to “joining the circus.” Although Lipinski concluded her competitive career in 2002, she later expressed a desire for new challenges and successfully transitioned into a career as a sports commentator.
Simone Biles
Regarded as one of the greatest gymnasts in history, Simone Biles boasts an impressive collection of four gold medals, making her the most decorated American gymnast of all time. After her remarkable performance at the Rio 2016 Olympics, she took a break from the sport but found it difficult to stay away for long. With the Tokyo Olympics postponed to 2021, there remains some uncertainty regarding the event, but Biles is anticipated to be one of the prominent figures among the competitors.
Brooke Bennett
American swimmer Brooke Bennett faced personal tragedy just days before achieving victory at the Atlanta 1996 Olympics, as she lost her grandfather. Despite this heartbreaking loss, she captured gold medals, marking a significant success in her career. However, her story was somewhat overshadowed by the final appearance of swimming legend Janet Evans at those Games. Bennett went on to secure two additional gold medals at the 2000 Olympics but ultimately did not qualify for the 2004 Olympics. After retiring from competitive swimming, she transitioned to coaching high school athletes, founded and operates the Brooke Bennett Swim School, and participates in marathon swimming events.
Michael Phelps
Michael Phelps shattered the records previously held by fellow American Mark Spitz, amassing an astounding 23 Olympic gold medals, bringing his total Olympic medal count to 28. After what was widely believed to be his retirement in 2012, Phelps made a surprising return to the Olympic stage in 2016 in Rio, where he once again showcased his dominance in the sport during his fourth Olympic Games. In addition to his remarkable athletic achievements, Phelps established the Michael Phelps Foundation in 2008, aimed at promoting swimming as a sport and encouraging health and wellness, fueled in part by a $1 million commitment from Speedo.
Inge de Bruijn
Inge de Bruijn, a talented Dutch swimmer, explored various sports before dedicating herself to swimming. Her journey to becoming a champion was a lengthy one, but her perseverance eventually paid off as she secured four gold medals. Upon her retirement in 2007, she distinguished herself as the oldest Olympian to win a gold medal and remains the oldest woman to achieve this feat. In addition to her own accomplishments, her brother Matthijs de Bruijn is an Olympian who competed in water polo at the 2000 Games. Beyond her swimming career, De Bruijn gained recognition as the face of Sapph, a Dutch lingerie brand, and currently resides in Eindhoven.
Paul Hamm
Paul Hamm made history at the 2004 Athens Olympics by winning the gold medal in the all-around competition, becoming the only American gymnast to secure all-around titles at both the Olympics and the Gymnastics World Championships. His victory was marked by controversy due to a scoring error involving one of his competitors; nevertheless, Hamm retained his medal and also earned two silver medals. After unsuccessful attempts to qualify for the Olympic team in 2008 and 2012, Hamm showcased his athleticism by appearing on the Japanese version of Ninja Warrior.
