Jodie Henry to Miss Olympics

Jodie Henry, the Aussie winner of the 100m freestyle and two relay events during the Athens 2004 swimming competition, has announced that she will not participate in the upcoming Olympics.

The struggle with motivational and physical problems has been cited as a cause. Over the last four years, Henry has switched coaches at least thrice, and suffered a mysterious illness that affected her muscles and caused pain. She has also had to contend with accusations that she was a homewrecker.

Personally, I’m all for Henry retiring. Winning three gold medals at the Olympics is a pretty impressive feat, even if two of them came from team events. And if there’s really a lack of motivation, then maybe it’s time to move on? Then again, how do retired Olympic swimmers make a living? Will so-called “Australian golden girl of swimming” enjoy the support of her government?