As athletes retire, they must make the transition from being the most competitive athlete in their sport to being a regular person who is not competing on a daily basis. This can put a lot of stress on the athletes themselves, as well as their families and partners. It is important that they are able to find a healthy way to deal with these pressures so that they can be successful after retirement.
Athletes must also figure out how to stay fit without being in competition and must find a sense of self outside their sport. This is often easier for amateur long-time athletes, but it can be difficult for elite and professional athletes who have based their entire life around the game.
Several of the biggest names in women’s sports have announced their retirement over the past few weeks, including two-time Olympic gold medalist Alex Morgan and U.S. women’s national team legend Tobin Heath. Both will be honored during their final NWSL games of the season.
In addition, 2022 European judo champion and two-time Olympian Gemma Howell has hung up her shin guards for good. She will now pursue a career in teaching.
The retirements of these stars are a reminder that athletic careers don’t last forever. As a result, athletes should start discussing their post-career plans with their advisors at an early stage in order to develop an appropriate financial roadmap. This may include paying off debt, making income-producing investments and establishing a side business.