Laura Kenny, Britain’s most decorated female Olympian in cycling, has decided to retire from competitive cycling, foregoing her ambition to participate in the upcoming Paris Olympics.
The 31-year-old, who has won five Olympic golds and recently welcomed her second child, expressed that it was time to prioritize her family over her sporting career.
Kenny, who has been a dominant force in track cycling with victories in omnium and team pursuit events at the London and Rio Games, as well as making history in the women’s madison at the Tokyo Olympics, has faced challenges in juggling her family life with the demands of professional sports. She admitted that the thought of retirement had been on her mind for some time, and the decision to step away brought her a sense of relief.
The cycling star, who returned to the sport after the birth of her first son in 2017, has faced personal hardships including a miscarriage and an ectopic pregnancy before having her second son in 2023.
Despite a recent assessment from British Cycling’s performance director suggesting only a slim chance of her competing in Paris, Kenny’s decision was driven by a desire to stay home with her children rather than pursue further Olympic glory.
Reflecting on her illustrious career, Kenny regards the 2012 London Games, where she clinched two gold medals and her relationship with fellow cyclist Jason Kenny became known, as the pinnacle of her achievements. While she steps away from competition, Kenny hopes to remain connected to the sport, potentially in a role at the Paris Olympics and within the British cycling community.
Stephen Park, British Cycling’s performance director, lauded Kenny’s retirement, recognizing her as one of the nation’s greatest sporting talents and a source of inspiration for her teammates and future Olympians. Kenny’s legacy in cycling extends beyond her medal haul, embodying the spirit of determination and excellence.
Source: AFP.
