Team USA Olympic Stars Move On to New Challenges

This summer in Paris showcased a blend of seasoned and emerging American Olympic athletes competing across various sports. With the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics on the horizon, many of these athletes are contemplating their futures and potential returns over the next four years. Notably, Simone Biles could challenge age norms in gymnastics if she competes in Los Angeles, while Noah Lyles, after a less-than-stellar performance in Paris, faces pressure to maintain his status in track and field. Katie Ledecky, who excelled in the 1500m and 800m freestyle events, plans to take a break from swimming in late 2024 but remains focused on the 2028 Olympics, where she will be 31. Ledecky emphasized her approach of taking things year by year, indicating uncertainty about her immediate future. Meanwhile, Sha'Carri Richardson made a triumphant return to the Olympic stage, winning gold in the 4x100 relay and silver in the 100-meter final after missing the Tokyo Games due to a drug test controversy. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has also made headlines by demanding that a medal be returned to Romania, affecting the standings of American athlete Chiles. Caeleb Dressel, who left Paris without individual medals, is contemplating a break from competition. Like Ledecky, he will be 31 during the Los Angeles Games, and he expressed a desire to take time off to recharge. The decisions made by these athletes in the coming years will shape the landscape of American athletics leading up to 2028.