Missy Franklin Embraces Life After Swimming

Missy Franklin is embracing life after swimming, feeling grateful for her experiences.

What happened to her swimming career?

She had a brilliant swimming career, capturing four gold medals and a bronze at the 2012 London Games. At 17, she turned in one of the greatest performances in Olympic history as a high school senior-to-be.

Why did she retire from swimming?

Her body would not let her fully realize her potential, with shoulder injuries forcing her to undergo surgery. After a dismal showing at the 2016 Rio Olympics, Franklin decided to retire from swimming. She had qualified in just two events and won her only medal as a morning relay swimmer.

What's next for Missy Franklin?

At 24, she feels like she's just getting started, looking forward to making an impact outside the pool. She wants everyone to know that she hasn't peaked yet, with a new marriage to Hayes Johnson and a degree in religion from the University of Georgia. Franklin will attend the Tokyo Olympics to work with sponsors and spread a message about protecting the environment. She's not quite clear where life is going to take her, but it's clear that she wants to stay involved with swimming. And she has a story to tell, a complete story, about her experiences and passions. Her former coach, Jack Bauerle, describes her as always being nice and passionate, with a big smile and bubbly laugh. So Franklin is moving forward, feeling grateful for her life and looking forward to the future. She earned her degree in religion from the University of Georgia in September, and she and her husband have purchased a home in suburban Denver. Franklin is convinced that her best is yet to come, even if she doesn't have the same sort of audience that she did in an Olympic pool. But she's ready for the challenge, with a positive attitude and a passion for life.