Many sports fans and athletes view the retirement of a famous athlete as a bittersweet moment, signifying the end of an era. It’s never easy, especially if an athlete spent decades playing a sport, winning medals and trophies along with the hearts of the fans. Athletes often find it challenging to transition from an active career to retirement as they leave the spotlight and the adrenaline that has kept their lives in shape for so long.
Yet, many athletes look for brand-new adventures once they retire and their sports careers end. We’ve highlighted renowned players who have retired but continue to shine. Sports fans around the world follow these athletes from different sports. Despite their retirement, their popularity and spark persist. Their fans and media keep a keen eye on their activities off the field.
Roger Federer
Roger Federer is a former tennis legend who had to make the tough call of retiring from professional tennis in 2022 and is one of the 10 most iconic champions of the Australian Open. For him, a decision about the departure wasn’t easy. Not for Federer himself, his family, or fans. Leaving the tennis world after years of playing was a tough decision. The huge fan base is still reflecting and sharing memories of his remarkable career.
Despite retiring, Federer has not stayed away from the mark entirely. Even though he is not an active player any longer. Federer remains deeply engaged in tennis mainly through partnerships and endorsements. Since 2003, the Roger Federer Foundation has offered educational opportunities to underprivileged children in Switzerland and southern Africa. He is also quite active on talk shows, as he has been visiting different countries for sponsorship events and media appearances.
Federer enjoys spending time with his family – his wife Mirka, and two sets of twins, two girls, and two boys.
Michael Phelps
Michael Phelps is the most known name in Swimming. Perhaps the most decorated Olympian with a staggering 28 medals.
Although retired from professional swimming, Michael Phelps has maintained a prominent presence in the sport advocating mental health awareness. Phelps actively encouraged open dialogues surrounding mental well-being. He established the Michael Phelps Foundation, which aims to encourage water safety and provide swimming education for children.
Serena Williams
The tennis universe has many stars that shine brighter than the sun, but Serena Williams remains one of the leading ones. Even though she retired, not a single match can’t be played without someone mentioning her. She did not stay far from the world of sports following her retirement announcement. Fashion lines and investing in tech startups have become new business interests for Serena.
Williams actively promotes gender equality. She uses her voice to address differences not only in sports but beyond as well. Serena is a vocal supporter of education and fairness initiatives through her Serena Williams Fund. You’ll often catch her at significant Tennis and Soccer events, especially in the US.
Mia Hamm
After retiring from professional soccer, Hamm got new roles that are equally inspiring and empowering. Right after retiring, Mia started to promote gender equality and women’s sports, actively advocating for female athletes. Hamm is involved in philanthropy on a deeper level, collaborating with various organizations.
Nowadays, she is the proud owner of various baseball and soccer teams. Even though she retired almost two decades ago, Mia Hamm continues to be one of the cherished icons in sports.
Michael Jordan
Who does not recognize Michael Jordan? According to many experts, Michael Jordan is the no. 1 player ever. The player faced a difficult time stepping away from the game that brought him great fame and success, but his road did not end there. Jordan retired years ago, but he is still an influential ambassador of the game.
After his retirement announcement, Jordan stepped into the business world. Jordan is the owner of numerous business endeavors. He also became the owner and chairman of the Charlotte Hornets NBA team. Jordan has another huge win to add to its long list of victories in and out of the field – he introduced a successful line of sneakers and other apparel under his Jordan brand.
Lindsey Vonn
Retiring is never easy, but athletes are aware that many new adventures await. Lindsey Vonn made a name for herself as a skiing champion. Stepping out from it all was a challenge, but Vonn embraced it. Right after she announced her retirement, she went in another direction – she chose to explore broadcasting and media. Vonn started to provide commentary during skiing events.
At the same time, Lindsey Vonn is committed to fitness as she usually participates in various physical challenges and promotes healthy living.
Final Thoughts
Athletes live a long time on the field. However, their legacy and charm do not fade away.
With the global expansion of social media, many retired athletes remain in touch with their fanbase through platforms like Instagram. Frequently, they engage with their followers and post their life updates. Therefore, their popularity and fame remain intact even after years into retirement.
