The latest athlete retirement news

Soccer legend Alex Morgan, one of the most prolific goal scorers in USWNT history, has officially retired. The three-time Olympic gold medalist, who also holds the record for most career two-goal games in team history, will play her final professional match on Sunday against the San Diego Wave.

Sports retirement is a major transition for elite athletes, often requiring a reconfiguration of identity that can be challenging. According to University of Queensland research, it is important for sport organisations to consider the holistic well-being of their athletes and support them in managing the end of their sporting careers.

Research shows that a number of challenges can arise during an athlete’s retirement period including depression, low life satisfaction, feelings of loss and difficulty adjusting to a new role in their life. In addition, athletes that are particularly hard-working and success driven may find it harder to cope with the physical changes in their bodies as they age.

To help address these concerns, RBC Wealth Management is supporting an innovative pilot program with USADA to support athletes in preparing for their retirement and in the process of re-enrolling in the USADA testing pool. The program aims to provide athletes with the necessary financial support during this important stage of their career and to assist them in the successful transition to post-athletic life. Athletes wishing to re-enroll must first consult with their NGB/IF as they may have additional requirements in accordance with their sport’s protocol for movement testing.