Once I retire, I'm retiring. I'm done

Once I retire, I'm retiring. I'm done

Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian of all time, made headlines when he announced his retirement from competitive swimming after the 2016 Rio Olympics. In an interview, he famously stated, "Once I retire, I'm retiring. I'm done." These words resonated with fans and critics alike, as they highlighted Phelps' unwavering commitment to stepping away from the sport that had defined his entire life.

Phelps' retirement was met with mixed emotions from fans who had followed his career closely. On one hand, there was a sense of sadness that such a legendary athlete would no longer be gracing the pool with his presence. On the other hand, there was a sense of respect for Phelps' decision to walk away on his own terms, knowing that he had achieved everything there was to achieve in the sport.

Phelps' retirement also sparked discussions about the challenges that athletes face when transitioning out of competitive sports. For many athletes, retirement can be a daunting prospect, as they are forced to redefine their identities and find new passions outside of the sport that has consumed their lives for so long. Phelps' declaration that he was done with swimming once and for all served as a powerful reminder that it is possible to move on and find fulfillment in other areas of life.

Since retiring, Phelps has focused on his family and his mental health, becoming an advocate for mental health awareness and speaking openly about his struggles with depression and anxiety. He has also taken on new challenges, such as starting his own foundation and pursuing business ventures outside of the world of swimming.