One of America’s greatest Olympians is leaving the country.
Greg Louganis rose to fame in the 1980s after sweeping the diving events at two consecutive Olympic games. He remains the only man in history to accomplish this feat, and is widely regarded as the greatest diver in American history.
“I think I may find it at times, in moments, my goal is to live it! Discover, allow, and nurture that human spirit through the experiences of lifeIn total, he won four Olympic gold medals and one silver medal, in addition to several gold medals in the World Championships and Pan American Games.
In a Facebook post, the legendary Olympian revealed that he would be moving to Panama, and he explained that some of his prized gold medals would be remaining in the United States in order to fund the trip.
Why Did Greg Louganis Sell His Medals?
“I have auctioned three of my medals, which sold, I believe, because I went against what the ‘experts’ told me last time when I tried the first time,” Louganis said in a Facebook post breaking down his decision to leave the country.
“I told the truth; I needed the money. While many people may have built businesses and sold them for a profit, I had my medals, which I am grateful for. If I had proper management, I might not have been in that position, but what is done is done; live and learn.”
Louganis made a combined $437,000 from the sale of the medals, a figure that exceeded his wildest expectations. The former diver noted that he was moved to sell many of his possessions after seeing his friends lose theirs in the Los Angeles wildfires last year.
“I know I am choosing to do this, but their resilience is an inspiration for me to start anew, with an open heart and an open door. Opening up to possibilities,” he said.
Louganis added that moving to a new country will give him a chance to find his purpose and re-establish his love for life. He said that he was “an instrument” of his coach, but that he was “honored, proud, and blessed to have been that” because it came from a place of love.
What’s Next For Greg Louganis?
With his athletic career and now several ties to America gone, Louganis will now look to prioritize himself and live for his own passions at this stage of his life.
“Now I get to discover who is Greg Louganis? Without the distraction and noise from outside. At least this is my goal, and hey, I may not find that,” he admitted.
“I think I may find it at times, in moments, my goal is to live it! Discover, allow, and nurture that human spirit through the experiences of life.”
Following his diving career, Louganis assumed roles as a television analyst and motivational speaker. He also appeared in several films and television shows, mostly as himself.
