Katie Zaferes retires from professional triathlon
American world champion and Olympic medalist, Katie Zaferes, has announced his retirement from professional triathlon after 11 years at the top of the sport.
Zaferes, who is preparing to compete this Sunday in the SuperTri in Toulouse, explained his decision in an emotional message on social media.
In his post, Zaferes used a quote from the author Alan Cohen to express the complexity of his decision:
“It takes a lot of courage to leave behind the familiar and seemingly safe, to embrace the new. But there is no real safety in what no longer has meaning. There is more safety in what is adventurous and exciting, because in movement there is life and in change there is power.”
The triathlete, who won the World Championship in 2019 and the bronze medal at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, acknowledged that the decision to retire has not been easy:
“After Tokyo I felt I had more to offer as a professional athlete. But after these last two years, I have realised that I have given everything I have at this level. The SuperTri in Toulouse will be my last race,” has explained.
Zaferes also opened up about the change in his passion for the sport:
“I’m finding that my heart isn’t in it anymore like it should be. There’s a part of me that still wants to love it and wants to cherish it. The most telling thing, though, is that I’m okay with the fact that I’m not. Other things are starting to excite me more.”
Despite his decision to leave professional triathlon, Zaferes has left the door open to possible changes in the future:
“Never say never, but right now we are approaching the final stop on this particular trip and I really enjoyed the ride.”
Zaferes' retirement represents a significant loss for world triathlon. Her determination, her sportsmanship and her talent have made her one of the most admired triathletes of the last decade. Her decision to focus on new projects marks the beginning of a new chapter in her life, which will be closely followed.
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A legacy that will inspire new generations
Zaferes has left an indelible mark on professional triathlon. In addition to her sporting successes, her positive attitude, her humility and her support for her teammates have made her a role model for new generations of triathletes.
Since Triathlon NewsWe wish you the best in this new stage of your life.
