Olympian Jennifer Abel retires from diving
After a fifteen-year international career, Jennifer Abel has officially announced her retirement from diving. In an open letter to her younger self, the 30-year-old explained that she will bring her sporting career to a close to focus on a new chapter of her life – one that will see her as a mother.
Two-time Olympic medalist, four-time Commonwealth champion, three-time Pan American Games champion, ten-time FINA World Championship medalist, Jennifer Abel leaves a permanent mark on the history of Canadian and international diving.
“Jenn’s innate talent and incredible power were evident even at the earliest stages of her career. In addition to becoming one of the most prolific medal-winners in Canadian diving history, Jenn inspired countless young girls to take on the challenge of diving or to get involved in other high-performance sports. With her infectious personality and positive disposition, she was a tremendous ambassador for Canadian diving. Jenn’s single-minded focus, courage under pressure, and commitment to her sport made her an exceptional role model for all Canadian athletes. We wish her the best of luck in all her future endeavors and thank her for her tremendous contributions to Canadian diving and to all Canadian sports”, said Mitch Geller, chief technical officer at Diving Canada.
Jennifer Abel started diving at age 5. Her parents insisted their children practice a sport and she chose diving, following in her brother’s footsteps. She competed at her very first diving competition at age 6 and never looked back. At 16, she became one of the youngest divers in Canadian history to represent the country at the Olympic Games.
Over the course of her career, Jennifer competed in four Olympic Games, five FINA World Championships, three Pan American Games, and three Commonwealth Games, as well as countless FINA events to win a total of 130 international medals. In 2019, she became the most decorated Canadian athlete ever at the FINA World Championships with ten medals, smashing the records previously set by Alexandre Despatie and swimmer Ryan Cochrane.
QUOTE FROM JENNIFER ABEL
“I experienced some amazing moments in my career. It is time now to begin a new chapter. With tear-filled eyes and a light heart, I would like to thank all the people who allowed me to have such a fulfilling career: my family, my coaches, my diving partners, my fiancé, my step-daughter, my agent, my therapists and my nutritionist.
My life as an athlete has prepared me for my adult life and now, for my life as a mother-to-be. Today, I know how to forgive myself after failure, where to draw strength in the face of adversity, and the type of energy it takes to succeed.
I want to thank Plongeon Québec and Diving Canada for helping me every step of the way, the Canadian Olympic Committee who made me feel supported until the end, the INS Quebec for providing me with a safe environment to train and an access to all the services I needed. Thanks to all the sponsors who believed in me throughout the years.”
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