Top 5 stars retiring after Paris Olympics;Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, LeBron James lead the farewells

Top 5 stars retiring after Paris Olympics;Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, LeBron James lead the farewells

Festus Chuma 09:00 - 14.08.2024

At the Paris Olympics, several sports legends concluded their careers with memorable performances, inspiring future generations and reflecting on legacies.

As the Paris Olympics drew to a close it not only marked the end of an era for several of the world's most decorated athletes but also offered a stage for dramatic exits and emotional farewells.

Among the luminaries bidding adieu were Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and LeBron James, each leaving a lasting legacy in their respective sports.

1. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce

Jamaican sprint queen Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce had declared Paris her "last hurrah," aiming to add to her impressive tally of eight Olympic medals.

After blazing through her 100m heat with a time of 10.92 seconds anticipation was high.

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce

However, an unexpected twist saw her withdraw from the semifinals due to an injury during warm-ups leaving fans and Fraser-Pryce herself heartbroken.

Despite the setback Fraser-Pryce's impact on track and field remains indelible.

With two Olympic titles and a relay gold among her accolades her legacy as one of the fastest women in history is secure.

Her absence in the semi-finals was felt by all marking a poignant end to her Olympic journey.

2. LeBron James

LeBron James clinched his third Olympic gold in a thrilling 98-87 victory over France, cementing his status as one of basketball's greats.

LeBron James

At 38, James played a crucial role throughout the tournament, showcasing his enduring skill and leadership.

Residing and playing in Los Angeles for the Lakers, James faces the prospect of the 2028 Olympics in his home city.

Despite the allure, he remains reticent about another Olympic stint.

"Although I didn't see myself in Paris, looking ahead four years, I can't see it," he said, leaving a slight window open for a potential return.

3. Andy Murray

British tennis star Andy Murray staged another memorable performance at Roland Garros during what he declared would be his final appearance.

Andy Murray

Facing elimination in the first round of doubles alongside Dan Evans, Murray defied odds by saving five match points against Japan, capturing victory in a thrilling tie-break.

Murray's journey in Paris continued with a second-round escape, but his run ended against the American duo of Taylor Fritz and Taylor Paul.

4. Simone Biles

Simone Biles aimed for redemption in Paris after her challenges in Tokyo.

She delivered spectacularly, securing gold in the all-around, team, and vault competitions.

Her signature move, the Yurchenko double pike, now known as the Biles II, was a highlight.

However, fatigue seemed to catch up with her on the final day, as she stumbled on the balance beam and took silver in the floor exercise.

Biles's reverence during the medal ceremony bowing to Brazil's Rebeca Andrade, hinted at a possible passing of the torch.

5. Adam Peaty

Adam Peaty entered the Paris Olympics as a favorite in the 100m breaststroke carrying the hopes of Team Great Britain.

Adam Peaty

Despite setting a blistering pace, he narrowly missed gold, finishing a mere two-hundredths of a second behind Italy's Nicolo Martinenghi, settling for silver.

His emotional reaction, combined with the revelation of a Covid diagnosis the following day, underscored the challenges he faced.

Peaty's resilience shone through as he returned to compete in the 4x100m medley relay, though Britain just missed out on a medal.

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