6 Legendary Athletes Who Retired and What They're Doing Now
Some athletes leave the game, but their impact continues long after retirement. Whether through business, coaching, or advocacy, these six sports legends have found ways to stay relevant and successful beyond their competitive years. Here’s a look at what they’re doing now.
1. Michael Phelps – Mental Health Advocate & Swim School Founder
With 23 Olympic gold medals, Michael Phelps is the most decorated Olympian in history. Since retiring from competitive swimming, he has become a mental health advocate, openly discussing his struggles with depression and anxiety. His Michael Phelps Swim School helps young swimmers hone their skills, and he continues to work with organizations like Talkspace to promote mental wellness. Phelps remains a major figure in both sports and mental health awareness.
2. Michael Jordan – Billionaire Entrepreneur & Brand Icon
Even after his legendary NBA career, Michael Jordan has remained one of the most influential athletes ever. With six NBA championships and two Olympic gold medals, his dominance on the court was unmatched. Today, he’s a billionaire entrepreneur, largely due to the global success of Jordan Brand under Nike. He also had a long tenure as the owner of the Charlotte Hornets, selling his majority stake in 2023 for a massive profit.
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3. Carl Lewis – University of Houston Track & Field Coach
With nine Olympic gold medals, Carl Lewis is one of the greatest track and field athletes of all time. After retiring in 1997, he transitioned into coaching and currently serves as the head coach of the University of Houston’s Track & Field team. Named the Sportsman of the Century by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Lewis continues to shape the next generation of elite athletes.
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4. Larisa Latynina – Gymnastics Coach & Olympic Organizer
With 18 Olympic medals (nine gold, five silver, and four bronze), Larisa Latynina held the record for most Olympic medals for decades. After her retirement, she became a coach for the Soviet gymnastics team, helping them secure gold in three consecutive Olympic Games (1968, 1972, and 1976). She also played a key role in organizing gymnastics competitions for the 1980 Moscow Olympics, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.
5. Oscar De La Hoya – Boxing Promoter & Entrepreneur
Nicknamed "The Golden Boy," Oscar De La Hoya won an Olympic gold medal in 1992 before becoming one of boxing’s biggest stars. After retiring in 2008, he turned to business and sports management, founding Golden Boy Promotions, a leading boxing promotion company. He also ventured into fashion with his clothing line and holds a stake in the Houston Dynamo soccer team. His influence in boxing remains strong.
6. Usain Bolt – Businessman & Entertainer
As the fastest man in history, Usain Bolt dominated sprinting with eight Olympic gold medals. Since retiring, he has dabbled in music, releasing tracks in Jamaica, and even briefly pursued professional soccer. Beyond entertainment, he’s built a business empire with his restaurant franchise, Tracks & Records, and continues to make appearances in global sports events.
