Missy Franklin, a five-time Olympic champion, has retired from swimming at age 23, according to her social media.
“This was perhaps the hardest letter I’ve ever had to write,” was posted on her social media. “There are so many words to say and I thank you all for letting me share them with you, and for your continued support. Today, I announce my retirement from competitive swimming.
“This is by no means the end. Rather, I choose to look at this as a new beginning. Swimming has been, and always will be, a big part of my life and I absolutely plan to stay involved in what I believe is the best sport in the world, just in a different way.