OT Missy Franklin retires at 23

[UConn82]

As we know, Missy was one of the huge stars at the 2012 Olympics. Sadly, from 2013 on, she battled shoulder (and back) issues. Although she swam in the 2016 Olympics, she was not nearly what she had been. Now, with continuing pain, she has had to hang up her goggles.

She was a great competitor. She really brought her "A" game in 2012, reminding me of Maya, Stewie, etc., etc., etc.

How varied different sports are. Missy is barely 1-2 years older than our seniors, who are really at the beginning of their careers.

One of the reasons Michael Phelps gave for retiring (for good it looks like) is that he wanted to lift his children over his head when he was 40. (Shoulder injuries are systemic in swimming, due to the repetitive stress.)

I do hope she finds another passion.

 

[Beemer]

Best of luck to her in the future!

 

[MSUFan2003]

Wow. I remember reading that she was training at UGA. I really enjoyed watching her in 2012 and wondered what happened to her in 2016. Best of luck to her.

 

[oldude]

One unfortunate side note. Heading into the 2012 Olympics Franklin could have earned millions from endorsement deals. However, she was already committed to Cal and wanted to preserve her amateur eligibility, believing that the endorsement opportunities would be even greater in 4 years. Sadly, Franklin’s injuries never allowed her the opportunity for the big payday. Her window of opportunity was 2012.

 

[uconnfan68]

Not every little girl can be a Dana Torres and swim forever.

 

[svetbird]

sad to see her go. She has been my favorite swimmer for years. wish her all the best and hope someone wil give her a chance to do some commentary at the next summer Olympics.