From Glory to Greatness: Catching up with Olympic Athletes

Participating in the Olympics is a lifelong aspiration for numerous athletes. It requires years of hard work and dedication, making it a truly extraordinary experience.

While some athletes choose to retire after competing in a single Olympic Games, gracefully bidding farewell to their athletic careers, others continue to train relentlessly, striving to make a comeback. Additionally, there are those who juggle their athletic pursuits with their everyday responsibilities.

Ligety and his wife, Mia Pascoe, have also learned how to effectively balance their child and their traveling lifestyle. “Having [son Jax] is a new and exciting journey,” he expressed. “My life has undergone significant changes in the past few years.”

As for swimmer Nathan Adrian, he had to temporarily step away from his athletic career after being diagnosed with testicular cancer. In January 2019, he shared the news through an Instagram post, stating, "Following several tests and consultations with specialists, I regretfully discovered that I have Testicular Cancer. However, on a positive note, we caught it early, and I have already commenced treatment with a favorable prognosis."

Assuring fans that he would persevere against the illness, the eight-time Olympic medalist maintained his unwavering determination to compete in Tokyo for the 2020 Games, which were subsequently postponed to 2021 due to the global impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Despite avoiding chemotherapy through two operations, Adrian unfortunately did not secure qualification for the Olympics.

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Olympic Athletes: Where Are They Now?

There are athletes who participate in the Olympic Games once and then retire gracefully. However, there are others who continue to train in order to make a comeback in future competitions. Additionally, some athletes manage to balance their athletic passions with other real-life responsibilities.

For instance, Ted Ligety, an alpine skier, has competed in four consecutive Winter Olympic Games. Despite his dedication to the sport, Ligety also prioritizes his family and devotes time and energy to them.

Testicular cancer diagnosis forced swimmer Nathan Adrian to temporarily leave his sport. In January 2019, he announced on Instagram that he had been diagnosed with Testicular Cancer following medical tests and consultation with a specialist. Despite the unfortunate news, Adrian remained optimistic, stating that the cancer was caught early, treatment had already begun, and the prognosis was positive. He assured his fans that he would battle the illness while keeping his ultimate goal of competing in the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games in clear focus.

Adrian went through two surgeries instead of undergoing chemotherapy during his recovery. He was not eligible for the 2020 Olympics, which were postponed to 2021 because of the global pandemic caused by the coronavirus.

In a June 2021 Instagram post, Adrian shared, "While I have your attention and people are listening, let me convey this message: discover your passion and wholeheartedly pursue it. Regardless of the outcome, it is a journey worth taking, bringing you closer to becoming the person you aspire to be on the other side. Go USA!!!"

Keep scrolling to see the progress of more Olympians throughout the years!

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Caitlyn Jenner: Then

Jenner achieved a remarkable feat in 1976 by winning the gold medal in the decathlon at the Montreal Games. This demanding event comprises 10 distinct track and field disciplines, such as high jump, pole vault, and hurdles. Jenner's exceptional performance granted her the title of the "World's Greatest Athlete" and even led to her image being featured on her very own Wheaties cereal box.

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In April 2021, Jenner announced that she was officially entering the race for California Governor, which she lost that September. 

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Lindsey Vonn: Then

Skier Vonn, who participated in her first Olympics in 2002 at the age of 17, achieved a historic milestone for American women by winning a gold medal in the downhill event at the 2010 Winter Olympics. Additionally, she was also awarded a bronze medal in the Super-G race of the same year.

The skier made her relationship with golf pro Tiger Woods public in 2013, but they ended their three-year relationship in May 2015. Vonn was then romantically linked to P.K. Subban, but they called off their engagement in December 2020, a year after announcing it.

In her professional career, Vonn had to sit out the 2014 Winter Olympics due to a knee injury. However, she did compete in the 2018 Games in PyeongChang, South Korea. In those Games, she tied for sixth place in the Women's Super-G and won a bronze medal in the women's downhill event. After achieving a third-place finish at the FIS Alpine World Ski Championships in Sweden in February 2019, Vonn decided to retire from competition.

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Gabby Douglas: Now

Since securing the coveted gold medal at the 2012 Olympics, this exceptional gymnast has consistently showcased her unrivaled talent in the field. Throughout 2015, she amassed an admirable collection of medals from numerous competitions, and added two more prestigious gold medals to her name in 2016. In an awe-inspiring display of skill, she once again graced the stage at the 2018 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where her contribution played a pivotal role in securing the U.S.A.'s consecutive triumph in the team event.

Douglas courageously spoke out in November 2017 about her encounter with Larry Nassar, a former doctor of the U.S.A. Gymnastics national team, who has faced allegations of sexual abuse from over 200 women. In January 2018, Nassar received a prison sentence ranging from 40 to 175 years.

In 2020, Douglas participated in the inaugural season of Masked Dancer and emerged victorious.

Ryan Lochte: Then

The swimmer, originally from New York, gained prominence for his signature catchphrase, "Jeah". He made his Olympic debut in 2004 and achieved his first individual gold medal in the men's 400-meter individual medley event during the London Games in 2012.

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During the Games, he gained significant media attention when he and his teammate, Jimmy Feigen, falsely claimed to have been robbed in Rio while out for the night. Lochte later admitted to exaggerating the story, which became known as Lochtegate. As a consequence, U.S.A. Swimming suspended him from both domestic and international competitions for 14 months. Lochte, a former reality star and Dancing With the Stars contestant, referred to this period as "the hardest time" of his life during an episode of Celebrity Big Brother in February 2019.

Despite the challenges in his professional career, Lochte's personal life has thrived. In June 2017, he and model Kayla Reid welcomed their son, Caiden, and the couple got married in a civil ceremony seven months later. They announced in November 2018 that they were expecting their second child, a baby girl. Their daughter, Liv Rae, was born in June 2019.

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Michael Phelps: Then

Phelps began his spree of world record-breaking in 2001, when he achieved a remarkable feat at the age of just 15 years and 9 months by setting a new record in the 200-meter butterfly. Demonstrating his unrivaled skill, he surpassed his own achievement at the 2003 World Aquatics Championships in Barcelona, clocking an impressive time of 1:53.93 in the same event. Showcasing his unrivaled talent once again, Phelps concluded his illustrious career at the London Games in August 2012, where he triumphed in the 4x100-meter medley relay, securing his 22nd Olympic medal and bidding farewell to competitive swimming.

Michael Phelps: Now

Initially declaring retirement in 2012, the athlete with the most Olympic accolades subsequently altered his plans and returned for the 2016 Olympic Games, earning five gold medals and one silver. In August 2016, he announced his second retirement.

Phelps tied the knot with Nicole Johnson, a former pageant contestant, in a private ceremony held in June 2016. However, their wedding was kept under wraps for a duration of four months. The couple is blessed with three sons: Boomer, who was born in 2016, Beckett, who arrived in 2018, and Maverick, who was born in 2019.

Moreover, Phelps has publicly shared his battles with depression and actively supports the cause of mental health care.

Hope Solo: Then

Hope Solo, the soccer goalie, showcased her exceptional skills during the 2008 Summer Olympics held in Beijing. Her remarkable saves played a pivotal role in securing the gold for Team U.S.A. Subsequently, in 2011, she participated in Dancing With the Stars, where she finished fourth. However, her journey faced a setback when she was found to have tested positive for a prohibited prescription medication. As a consequence, she received a warning from the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency just before the commencement of the 2012 Summer Games.

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Hope Solo: Now

The author of Solo: A Memoir of Hope tied the knot with former NFL star Jerramy Stevens in November 2012, shortly after leading her team to a second Olympic gold medal at the London Games. In the following year, she played a vital role in helping the U.S. team claim victory in the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup, earning herself the prestigious Golden Glove trophy for her outstanding performance as a goalie. Despite initial concerns about the Zika virus, she contemplated skipping the 2016 Summer Games. Nevertheless, she ultimately decided to pursue her third gold medal. Unfortunately, the U.S.A. faced a disappointing defeat against Sweden in the quarterfinals, which led to a notable reaction from Solo.

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Shawn Johnson: Then

Johnson, originally from Iowa, achieved her first gold medal at the young age of 16 during the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Under the esteemed mentorship of Liang Chow, she not only secured the gold but also earned three silver medals for her outstanding performances in the team, individual all-around, and floor exercise competitions by the conclusion of the Beijing Games.

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The gold medalist, who is married to football player Andrew East, has a successful YouTube channel. They got married in April 2016 and unfortunately experienced a miscarriage in October 2017. However, in April 2019, they joyfully announced their second pregnancy. Their daughter, Drew, was born in October 2019. In March 2021, they excitedly shared that they were expecting a boy, who arrived in July 2021 and was named Jett. Recently, in July 2023, Johnson revealed she is pregnant with their third baby.

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Aly Raisman: Now

After participating in the 2012 Olympics, the gymnast took part in season 16 of Dancing With the Stars alongside her partner Mark Ballas. She achieved a fourth-place position. Later on, the gymnast from Massachusetts made the decision to strive for a position on the 2016 U.S.A. Olympic gymnastics team with a little push from Tom Brady. Raisman mentioned, "I thought I was too old." Tom replied, "No, you're not."

The captain of the Olympic gymnastics team at the Rio Games, the DWTS alum, reprised her role. She led the States to victory in the team all-around, bringing home the gold medal. Additionally, she excelled individually, securing a silver medal for her performance and exercise. In November 2017, Raisman bravely came forward as a victim of Nassar, delivering a powerful statement during his sentencing two months later. The following month, she decided to take legal action against U.S.A. Gymnastics and the United States Olympic Committee, alleging their awareness or should-have-known stance on the ongoing abuse.

Biles became an instant sensation in the world of gymnastics after her remarkable performance at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. She secured an impressive five medals, including gold in the team event, individual all-around competition, vault, and floor exercise. Additionally, she proudly earned the bronze medal in the balance beam final. Biles' exceptional achievements established a new American record for the most gold medals won by an individual at a single Games.

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Simone Biles: Now

"It's challenging to be young and have such a lengthy relationship only to eventually call it quits," she shared with Vogue for their August 2020 cover story, emphasizing that "it was the right decision."

Her romantic journey with Jonathan Owens commenced in 2020, culminating in their engagement in February 2022 and their marriage in April 2023.

Biles returned to the Olympics in Tokyo in 2021. She backed out of numerous events because of her mental health but ended up still winning a silver and a bronze medal. 

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Greg Louganis: Then

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Greg Louganis: Now

Greg Louganis was chosen by ABC in March 2013 to be a trainer on their diving show, Splash. The show featured famous contestants like Brandi Chastain and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. JD Roth, the producer of Splash, expressed that not having Greg Louganis on the celebrity diving show would be similar to producing a celebrity basketball show without Michael Jordan, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

After retiring from diving, Louganis started participating in dog agility competitions. In October 2013, he got married to his partner Johnny Chaillot. However, Louganis confirmed in June 2021 that the couple has decided to end their marriage.

Kerri Walsh Jennings: Then

Alongside beach volleyball partner Misty May-Treanor, Walsh took home gold medals at the 2004, 2008 and 2012 Olympics.

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Kerri Walsh: Now

Following the London Games, Walsh Jennings, who revealed her pregnancy during the Olympics, joyously welcomed her third child, daughter Scout, in 2013. Alongside her sons Joseph and Sundance, whom she shares with fellow professional volleyball player Casey Jennings, the determined athlete returned to compete in the 2016 Olympics held in Rio de Janeiro. This time, she formed a new partnership with April Ross, and the dynamic duo successfully secured a bronze medal.

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Apolo Ohno: Then

Ohno made his debut in the Olympic Games of 2002 held in Salt Lake City, Utah. It was a remarkable performance as he secured a silver and a gold medal. He then displayed his exceptional skills again in the 2006 Games in Turin, Italy, earning a bronze and two golds. Following the Games, he took a break from competitive speed skating for a year. However, before his triumphant return at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, Ohno diligently shed 20 pounds to enhance his speed on the ice. His commitment paid off as he proudly brought home an additional four medals.

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Apolo Ohno: Now

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Ashley Wagner: Then

The first place was secured by the figure skater during the 2012 U.S. Figure Skating Championships and later she went on to participate in the 2014 Winter Olympics held in Sochi, Russia. During her time at the Games, she gained attention by criticizing the Olympic judges after finishing seventh in the ladies' individual competition. The athlete expressed her dissatisfaction, stating that it was unfair for her to be placed behind three competitors who had each fallen during their performances. She emphasized the need to eliminate anonymous judging, voicing her opinion at that time.

Ashley Wagner: Now

Since the 2014 Olympics, Wagner has made history as the first American woman to qualify for three consecutive Grand Prix Finals, following in the footsteps of the legendary Michelle Kwan. Additionally, she achieved a remarkable silver medal at the 2016 World Championships, marking the first time in over ten years that an American woman medaled at this prestigious event. Although she made a formidable bid for the 2018 Games in PyeongChang, Wagner ultimately earned the honorable position of first alternate. After an illustrious career, she gracefully retired from the sport in 2019.

Wagner revealed in July 2019 that she was sexually assaulted when she was 17 by a fellow skater. 

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McKayla Maroney: Then

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McKayla Maroney: Now

After participating in the London Games, Maroney ventured into the acting industry with her debut on The CW's Hart of Dixie. Additionally, she took on the role of a judge in the 2013 Miss America pageant. Maroney decided to retire in February 2016 and openly shared on the "GymCastic" podcast that her passion for the sport was diminishing. Later on, in October 2017, Maroney bravely came forward and accused Nassar of subjecting her to repeated sexual abuse throughout her career. More recently, in March 2020, Maroney unveiled her first single.

Gracie Gold: Then

At the 2014 U.S. Championships, the figure skater achieved first place in the short program before securing a bronze medal with her team at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi. In the ladies' single skating competition, she ultimately finished fourth.

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Gold, the American figure skater, clinched the top spot at both the U.S. Championships and the Team Challenge Cup in 2016. Unfortunately, she had to withdraw from various contests due to personal matters and alterations in her coaching team. Nevertheless, following her withdrawal from the 2019 U.S. Nationals, Gold disclosed her determination to pursue the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing.

Gracie Gold: Now

Gus Kenworthy: Then

Not only did the skier gain international recognition for his remarkable performance at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, where he secured a silver medal in the slopestyle event, but he also brought attention to the dire situation of stray dogs in the city. Going above and beyond, he extended his stay by an extra month to facilitate the adoption of a mother dog and her four puppies, ensuring their relocation to the United States. Remarkably, the skier himself adopted two of these adorable canines.

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Kentworthy made an appearance on American Horror Story in 2019. Following The Bachelor contestant Colton Underwood's public disclosure of his sexuality in April 2021, it was announced that Kentworthy would be collaborating with him on a Netflix series. In February 2020, Kentworthy achieved his first gold medal.

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Meryl Davis and Charlie White: Then

The ice dancing partnership — with an impressive tenure since 1997 — secured the silver medal in the 2010 Olympics. Subsequently, they triumphed at the 2011 World Championships held in Russia, claiming the top spot, and proceeded to seize the coveted gold at the 2014 Games in Sochi.

Meryl Davis and Charlie White: Now

Davis and White, after their triumphant victory at the Sochi Games, embarked on the Stars on Ice tour. Additionally, they both showcased their dancing skills on season 18 of Dancing With the Stars. Dazzlingly, Davis was matched with the talented pro Maksim Chmerkovskiy, resulting in their triumph as they clutched the prestigious Mirrorball Trophy. On the other hand, White showcased his impeccable talent alongside pro Sharna Burgess, securing a commendable fifth place. In 2017, the spectacular Olympic champions officially declared their decision to bid farewell to competitive ice dancing.

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Adam Rippon: Then

The dynamic personality and witty remarks of the figure skater captured the hearts of people worldwide. However, it was not just his charm that secured him a place in the 2018 Winter Olympic team; it was his relentless effort and unwavering dedication to the sport of figure skating. Hailing from Pennsylvania, he proudly represented the U.S.A. in Pyeongchang and achieved a remarkable feat by winning a bronze medal in the team event.

Adam Rippon: Now

After his return from South Korea, Rippon swiftly rose to fame on social media. He made his mark on Dancing With the Stars season 26 in 2018 and emerged as the victorious champion alongside Jenna Johnson.

Rippon appeared in Taylor Swift's "You Need to Calm Down" music video in 2019.

The Olympian married Jussi-Pekka Kajaala in December 2021.

Katie Ledecky: Then

Ledecky, at the age of 15, marked her debut at the 2012 Games in London. The swimmer amazed spectators with her exceptional performance in the 800-meter freestyle, clinching the gold medal with a remarkable lead of over four seconds, a truly extraordinary achievement in the world of swimming. Returning to the Olympic Games in 2016, Ledecky continued her impressive streak of accomplishments. She secured four gold medals and one silver medal, while also setting two new world records during the event in Rio.

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Katie Ledecky: Now

As of 2016, the athlete became a part of the Stanford University swim team as a freshman and has since achieved numerous record-breaking feats. Following the conclusion of the 2016-2017 season, Ledecky made history by becoming the first freshman in 35 years to be honored with the Honda-Broderick Cup, an esteemed award presented to exceptional female collegiate athletes.

Alex and Maia Shibutani: Then

The brother-sister ice dancing duo have competed at two Olympic Games: Sochi in 2014 and 2018 in PyeongChang, where they won an individual and a team bronze medal.

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Chloe Kim: Then

Kim made history at the 2018 Olympics as she became the youngest female snowboarder to ever win an Olympic medal in the women's snowboard halfpipe event. This remarkable achievement occurred when she was just 17 years old. Prior to her remarkable performance at the Olympics, Kim had already established herself as a dominating force in snowboarding, showcasing her skills and talent at the X Games. Additionally, she also became the first American to achieve a gold medal in snowboarding at the Winter Youth Olympic Games.

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Missy Franklin: Then

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Missy Franklin: Now

Franklin made a comeback to the Olympic stage in 2016, but unfortunately, did not secure any medals. Following this, she announced her retirement two years later.

In September 2019, Franklin tied the knot with Hayes Johnson. Then, in March 2021, the couple happily shared the news of their first child on the way. Their daughter, Sarah, was joyfully welcomed into the world in August 2021.

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The initial gold medal was secured by the accomplished athlete, who has triumphed five times in the Olympics. This remarkable achievement took place at the 2008 Summer Games held in Beijing, China. Subsequently, the athlete participated in the 2012 and 2016 Games, attaining two gold medals and one silver, followed by two gold medals and two bronzes, respectively.

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Nathan Adrian: Now

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Lolo Jones: Then

Jones was expected to win the gold medal in the 100-meter hurdles at the 2008 Summer Olympics, but she faltered towards the end of the race and ended up finishing in seventh place. "You encounter a hurdle that affects your race about twice a year," she later remarked. "It's unfortunate that it happened during the most important race of my life." Despite her disappointment, she persevered with her training and secured a spot on the U.S. track and field team for the 2012 Games in London. However, she narrowly missed the podium and finished fourth in the 100-meter hurdles final.

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Jones has made notable appearances on popular reality shows such as Celebrity Big Brother, Dancing With the Stars, and The Challenge. However, her time on the MTV show garnered significant controversy when she claimed to have been "compelled" to depart the program in February 2021.

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Ted Ligety: Then

The alpine ski racer won gold in 2006 and again in 2014. 

Ligety retired in February 2021. He now focuses his time on his company, Shred Optics, which produces ski gear. He also shares son Jax with wife Mia Pascoe. 

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J.R. Celski: Then

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J.R. Celski: Now

The athlete retired from speed skating in November 2018, less than a year after the PyeongChang Games ended. On his website, he expressed his anticipation of witnessing the future generation of speed skaters thriving by achieving new milestones, surpassing limits, and establishing fresh records. He entrusted the responsibility of advancing the sport to them and expressed his confidence in their potential. Furthermore, he encouraged them to maintain an enjoyable and relaxed approach, push themselves beyond their perceived capabilities, and acquire the skill of sharpening their own skate blades.