Five time Olympic gold medalist and Colorado sweetheart, Missy Franklin, is retiring from competitive swimming at age 23. In a letter published on ESPN.com, Franklin says she is choosing to step way from swimming rather than undergo another shoulder surgery. Following the Rio Olympics, she had surgery on both shoulders.
Franklin says she will now focus on other areas of her life. Engaged, she's looking forward to getting married and eventually having children.
In the letter, Franklin talks about her love of swimming saying "Being in the water gave me a sense of freedom, playfulness and joy. It was where I could be completely and utterly myself, not bound by any restrictions or limitations."
Franklin is a graduate of Regis Jesuit High School in Aurora. she made her Olympic debut at age 17 and won five gold medals at the London games.