“The Olympics remain the most compelling search for excellence that exists in sport, and maybe in life itself.” These are the words of Australian swimmer Dawn Fraser, who is very familiar with this tournament’s history. With the Paris Olympics happening right now, it’s worth asking what gives this whole thing its epic legacy. If you ask me, it’s these luminaries whose performances etched themselves into the collective memory, that truly define the Olympics’ legacy.

From the aquatic dominance of Michael Phelps to the blistering speed of Usain Bolt, the Olympics has produced a constellation of stars whose brilliance has illuminated the global stage. Their triumphs have inspired millions, transcending cultural and linguistic boundaries. As the torch is passed to a new generation of athletes in Paris, it is compelling to examine how these iconic figures are navigating life beyond the competitive arena. Have they retired gracefully, transitioned seamlessly into new roles, or perhaps embarked on entirely unexpected ventures?

The life beyond the podium for your favorite Olympic legends

The Paris Olympics offers a platform not just for current athletes, but also for iconic figures whose competitive days are behind them. This exploration examines the diverse paths taken by these legends, revealing their post-Olympic endeavors. From broadcasting to business, advocacy to entertainment, their impact persists beyond athletic achievements.

Michael Phelps

You know him as the G.O.A.T. of swimming, the guy with more medals than anyone else in Olympic history. While he hung up his goggles after 2016, Michael Phelps did pop up at the Paris Olympics. However, this time around, he isn’t competing but is lending his expertise as an analyst for NBC and Peacock’s primetime and daytime coverage.

Plus, he’s teaming up with Dan Hicks and Rowdy Gaines to break down some swimming events too. And if that wasn’t enough, the 13x Gold Medal winner also made a cameo during the opening ceremony alongside Martin Fourcade for NBC coverage.

Usain Bolt

Moving from one legend to another, Usain Bolt was also spotted at the Paris Olympics! This time around, he’s not lighting up the 100m track like in the old days, but he’s just chilling as a spectator. On top of that, he was the second person to receive the torch at this year’s opening ceremony. Aside from that, this Jamaican superstar is looking forward to kicking back and soaking in all the action with his family in Paris.

Allyson Felix

And how can we overlook the most decorated track and field star in Olympic history, Allyson Felix? Recently, she announced her candidacy for the International Olympic Committee Athletes’ Commission—big moves! With full support from Team USA’s Athletes’ Commission, she’s set on making waves for improving the Olympic movement. Plus, during these Games in Paris, she teamed up with Pampers to launch an awesome initiative—creating the first-ever nursery right within the Olympic Village. How cool is that?

Missy Franklin

Despite retiring from competitive swimming in 2018, Missy Franklin is still keeping close to the sport at the Paris Olympics. The five-time Olympic medalist is working with Yahoo Sports to create some nice breakdown videos of swimming events happening at the Games.

On top of that, you can catch her commenting on gymnastics and being a fan like everyone else!

Laurie Hernandez

So, Laurie Hernandez, the awesome retired American gymnast, is all in on the Paris Olympics! Currently, the 2x Olympic medalist is acting as an NBC correspondent at the France Games. And here’s an interesting fact: this year marked her very first time attending the Olympic opening ceremony, even though she competed back in 2012 and 2016.

Aly Raisman

Then we have Aly Raisman, who, after hanging up her leotard, jumped headfirst into fashion! She’s launched a bunch of collections and brought her trendy vibes to the Paris Olympics in 2024 too. She rocked that opening ceremony in an eye-catching Carolina Herrera dress—a stunning strapless silk number with these huge bow details from the Chalet 2025 collection. Talk about making a statement in one of the world’s fashion capitals!

It feels kind of wild to see all these former champs who once rocked the charts at past Olympics diving into totally different careers now. It’s a bit of a heartbreaker since their time has passed, but hey—it’s all about looking ahead! So let’s take a page from Usain Bolt’s book: kick back and enjoy what these fresh faces bring to the stage.