Former Steelers receiver Mike Williams has announced his retirement from the NFL at 30 years old. In a Twitter post, the three-time Pro Bowl player said he was retiring because he wants to focus on his family and his coaching career.
Morgan’s decision to retire ended a remarkable, storied career that saw her surpass astronomical expectations on the field while redefining women’s soccer off it. The three-time Olympian and two-time World Cup champion was a key member of the U.S. women’s national team that won gold in 2012 and 2024. Her 123 international goals place her fifth in the decorated pantheon of USWNT scorers, trailing only Mia Hamm and Abby Wambach.
The transition to retirement is complex for elite athletes, who may have been in their sport for decades and spent 9/10ths of the year conditioning and training six days a week. Dr Cavallerio’s interviews with retired gymnasts show that they often struggle to identify with anything other than their sport. This can lead to a range of setbacks, including loneliness, depression and low self-esteem.
Athletes may also struggle to adapt to a new routine as they adjust to a more relaxed lifestyle, which can include weight gain and poor eating habits. They may also find it difficult to jump straight into recreational sports or training as they were used to. The good news is that with planning, some athletes can navigate these challenges. This includes establishing a savings plan early in their careers, seeking financial advice from qualified professionals and, for those who are married or have children, negotiating a prenuptial agreement to protect future earnings in the event of a divorce.