DENVER — Renowned across the globe as an Olympic swimming sensation, Missy Franklin has gracefully transitioned from the competitive pool to a new chapter in her life, one centered around family and purpose beyond the lanes.
In an exclusive interview with 9NEWS anchor Kim Christiansen, Missy Franklin-Johnson shared the intimate details of her life’s evolution following her exceptional Olympic journey, her subsequent retirement due to a career-altering shoulder injury, and her newfound devotion to her family.
As a recipient of five coveted gold medals, Missy Franklin’s name became synonymous with excellence in the swimming world. However, to those closest to her heart, she is cherished for her roles as a loving daughter, devoted wife, and doting mother to an adorable baby girl.
Reflecting on her transformative journey since her inaugural Olympic appearance at the 2012 London Games, followed by her notable feats in the 2016 Rio Olympics, Missy disclosed how her perspective on life has shifted. The interview showcased her commitment to her family, with no intention of making a comeback from retirement, and her active role as an ambassador for the USA Swimming Foundation, where she advocates for mental health awareness.
Her involvement in the “Saving Lives Is Always in Season” national campaign was also highlighted during the interview. This initiative aims to enhance accessibility to learn-to-swim programs as part of a nationwide endeavor to curtail drownings.
Delving into her life since leaving the competitive swimming arena, the interview delved into Missy’s personal revelations on various topics dear to her heart.
Parenthood and Legacy The topic of parenthood took a center stage in the interview as Missy narrated the poignant story behind her daughter’s name. She and her husband, Hayes, opted for a meaningful appellation that tied back to cherished family memories.
“Sarah Kaitlyn,” Missy shared, “a name that carries forward the legacy of Hayes’s older sister, who was tragically lost shortly after birth. To honor her memory, we chose this name, ensuring that her legacy lives on within our family.”
The arrival of her daughter, coinciding with her father’s birthday, added an extra layer of significance. “The shared birthday is truly a special bond,” Missy expressed, her voice resonating with emotion. “My daughter and father will forever celebrate this day together, and it means the world to me.”
Creating Family Bonds Through Shared Experiences Swimming was a prominent aspect of Missy’s life from an early age. With her parents having no prior history with the sport, Missy took it upon herself to teach her own daughter water safety. Enrolling baby Kaitlyn in swimming lessons brought Missy and her husband back to the pool, marking a full-circle moment in their lives.
Missy reminisced, “Being in the water with our 6-month-old daughter, witnessing her joy and curiosity, was an experience beyond words. It was a profound connection, one that I treasured deeply.”
A Purposeful Shift Amidst Challenges The COVID-19 pandemic presented unforeseen challenges for many, including Missy’s family. However, amidst the hardships, Missy discovered a renewed sense of purpose and the importance of family bonds.
“Family is the cornerstone of what truly matters,” Missy affirmed. “The pandemic provided us the opportunity to reevaluate our priorities and solidify our commitment to nurturing these precious relationships.”
Though she’s moved to Nashville, Missy expressed a steadfast connection to Colorado, her birthplace and the home of cherished memories. “Colorado will always hold a special place in my heart. Leaving was a difficult decision, but being with my parents and my own family in one place is a gift beyond measure.”
Inspiration and Resilience Missy’s interview underscored the significance of relatable role models and their ability to inspire. She emphasized the power of authenticity and vulnerability demonstrated by fellow athletes like Mikaela Shiffrin and Simone Biles, asserting that their openness fosters a culture of support and understanding.
“Mikaela Shiffrin’s triumphant return to the ski podium is a testament to the resilience we all possess,” Missy shared. “These moments of triumph, even in the face of challenges, are worth celebrating and embracing. They shape us in profound ways.”
Reflecting on her journey, Missy remarked, “Every day I plunged into that icy pool, my love for swimming was my guiding force. Even in moments of setbacks, that love endured. Swimming has been an unparalleled teacher in my life, and I will forever be grateful for the lessons it imparted.”
As the interview concluded, Missy’s story resonated as a testament to the evolution of a champion athlete into a loving family woman, an advocate for positive change, and a symbol of resilience.