In athlete retirement news, USWNT legend and one of the most accomplished players of her generation, Tobin Heath, is retiring from soccer after two Olympic gold medals and 123 World Cup appearances. She’s also a two-time FIFA Women’s Player of the Year. And now, she’s preparing to retire from her club, Angel City FC, who will honor her during Sunday’s game against the Portland Thorns FC.
Many athletes, especially those who play professional sports, have a hard time knowing when to retire and can struggle with the transition from elite sport and its culture of intense competition to normal life. The process of adjusting to retirement can be even harder for athletes who are forced into it by the pandemic or other circumstances.
During the transition, it’s important for athletes to figure out who they are outside their sport and how to stay fit without integrating it into their daily lives. It can be a difficult shift for some, but other athletes have found success in this area by finding new hobbies or engaging with friends and family in a more social way.
Athletes in the early stages of retirement should be sure to set themselves up for a good financial future. That includes paying off debts and making income-producing investments. However, it’s crucial for them to understand that these investments shouldn’t be made in a rush. Athletes who make these decisions too quickly can find themselves in trouble down the road.