Olympic medalists are among the most exceptional human beings on the planet. Unsurprisingly, these outstanding individuals often continue to excel later in life… Check out some of the greatest Olympians and how they’re doing nowadays.
Tara Lipinski
Tara Lipinski made history at just 14 years, nine months, and 10 days old when she became the 1997 World Figure Skating Champion. The following year, the American skating sensation converted this success to Olympic gold in the 1998 Olympics, but when she became professional that same year, it meant she could no longer compete in competitions. The media lambasted her, and one journalist likened it to joining the circus. Lipinski ended her professional career in 2002, but later said she was searching for something, so she launched a sports commentator career.
Simone Biles
Biles is considered one of the greatest gymnasts in the world, with four gold medals and a slew of other gymnastics medals that make her the most decorated American gymnast. Since bringing home those golds in Rio 2016, she took a break but couldn’t stay away from the sport forever. With the Tokyo Olympics postponed until 2021, there’s still uncertainty over what exactly will happen, but Biles will likely be the biggest face of those competing.
Brooke Bennett
American swimmer Brooke Bennett had lost her grandfather mere days before winning big at Atlanta 1996. Despite the tragedy, winning gold anyway was a huge success story, although this personal story might have been overshadowed by swimming star Janet Beth Evans’ last appearance at the Games. Bennett won two more gold medals at the 2000 Olympics but was unable to qualify for the 2004 Olympics. She retired from competitive swimming, yet she coaches high school, opened and runs the Brooke Bennett Swim School, and swims marathons.
Carly Patterson
Carly Patterson was inducted into the USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame thanks to her performances in the 2004 Athens Olympic Games, which was the first time an American won the all-around competition in a non-boycotted Olympics. After this, she was forced to retire because of an injury she realized she had in her back. “Carly,” she was told by her doctor, “you really need to stop if you want to be able to walk when you get older.” Patterson since then launched her music career as a singer/songwriter.
Birgit Fischer
Birgit Fischer stayed at the top of her sport for longer than many people say they did. The German kayaker competed in a total of eight Olympic Games, making her both the youngest and the oldest to compete in the sports competition. Interestingly enough, Fischer retired from kayaking twice, but couldn’t stay away from the sport for long. Since retiring, Fischer found herself behind the lens – she is a photographer who displays her artwork through the Art of the Olympians Foundation.
Mike Eruzione
The 1980 Soviet Union vs. the United States Olympic ice hockey game was set in stone – the Soviets were bound to win. Then, Team USA pulled off the most incredible upset that has been dubbed “The Miracle on Ice.” Mike Eruzoine is one of the American heroes from that team. Since retiring from hockey, the legend works with Boston University. In 2002, he lit the cauldron at the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics.
Mia Hamm
When you say the name Mia Hamm – the United States Women’s National soccer team comes straight to your mind. The two are intertwined, Hamm was a huge part of her team’s success both at the Olympics and World Cups. The soccer player earned two Olympic gold medals during her time playing for the team. She was named the Women’s World Player of the Year twice. Even after her retirement from the sport – her name has become synonymous with one of the biggest soccer franchises in the world, Barcelona.
Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan may be referred to as the greatest basketball player of all time. He won every medal there is to win in basketball, two Olympic gold medals, one in 1984 and his second in 1992. His NBA career is nothing short of fascinating, and Jordan became the first NBA player to become a billionaire – gaining this title in 2014. After retiring, Jordan continued developing his brand and is the principal owner of the franchise, Charlotte Hornets.
Apolo Ohno
Apolo Ohno won a total of eight medals at the Winter Olympics two gold, two silver, four bronze, and and winning eight World Championships between 2001 and 2009. The short track speed skater was only 14 years old when he first became the American speed skating champion. After his winning streak, Ohno ended his career in 2013. In 2007, he was a contestant on Dancing with the Stars – winning the competition. In 2019, Ohno was inducted into the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame.
Bjorn Daehlie
Bjorn Daehlie is one of Norway’s most-decorated Winter Olympic athletes, winning eight gold medals and four silver in cross-country skiing. He competed at the 1992 Winter Olympics, rising to fame in his home country. He has won a total of 29 medals in the Olympics and World Championships. Daehlie loves the thrill of competition and insists on competing in World Championships, going against his doctor’s recommendation to refrain from further competition. Interestingly enough, besides his athlete career, Bjorn is also an accomplished fashion designer.
