“I’ve accomplished so much, there’s almost nothing left to do, rather than to just be snobby and to try again, and for what? I’m at a point in my career where I’m humble enough to know when to be done,” she told Sport Illustrated.
With 11 Olympic medals — seven of them gold — the gymnast’s achievements are undeniable. But even with such success, knowing when to walk away is never easy. Whether you’re a professional athlete or considering retiring from your 9-to-5 job, decisions can feel anything but straightforward. However, taking the time to weigh a few factors can make the transition to the next chapter a bit smoother.
What’s worth it?
In her interview with Sports Illustrated, Biles opens up about the sacrifices she’s made at different stages of her life to achieve the level of success in her career. But as she continues to evolve, the relentless time and dedication required to stay on top come with increasingly significant trade-offs.
“What sacrifices would be made if I go back now?” Biles reflected. “ When you’re younger, it’s like, prom, college. Now it’s like, starting a family, being away from my husband. What’s really worth it?”
Whether you’re contemplating retirement to focus on family, explore new passions or simply enjoy the fruits of your labor, financial preparedness is key. According to a recent study by the Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI), 38% of retirees underestimated their medical expenses in retirement, with health care costs catching them off guard.
In recent years, Americans aged 65 to 84 have seen their health care spending grow at a faster rate than younger individuals, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services](https://www.cms.gov/Research-Statistics-Data-and-Systems/Statistics-Trends-and-Reports/NationalHealthExpendData/Downloads/AgeandGenderHighlights.pdf). Medicare benefits don’t kick in until age 65, meaning if you plan to retire earlier, you’ll need to account for private health insurance or build a financial cushion to handle unexpected medical expenses.
Planning ahead and ensuring your savings align with your long-term goals can make all the difference in a smooth transition.
Other key factors to consider
While professional athletes push their physical limits, most Americans retire say the ideal retirement age is 63, according to a study by Mass Mutual. However, whether you’re vaulting across a competition floor or working a desk job, one factor remains universal: being financially ready to retire is important.
You can start claiming your Social Security retirement benefit as early as age 62, but you’ll only receive the full amount once you reach your full retirement age — 67. If you choose to collect benefits at 62 instead of waiting until 67, your monthly payments will be reduced. For instance, if you turn 62 in 2025, your benefit would be reduced by around 30% compared to what you’d receive at full retirement age.
