Former Olympians also get paid to make appearances. Many of them won their medals in an era when Olympic success didn’t go hand-in-hand with financial success.

There can be distractions, but if you’re isolated from the heart of the Games, the Olympics become just another competition.

I usually don’t mind giving autographs, but when hundreds of folks with paper and pen start coming at you, it’s time to seek shelter.

Many medal winners dream of competing in a sport other than the one they’re famous for.

As much time as you put into it, that’s what your achievements are going to be when you come out of it.

I love her attitude, but as much as I’d like to bring my medals to a speech or appearance, I never do.

Erase the word “failure” from your vocabulary. No case is ever truly closed, and no challenge is ever over.

As simple as it sounds, we all must try to be the best person we can: by making the best choices, by making the most of the talents we’ve been given.

You’ve got to believe in yourself first. Take risks and don’t be afraid to fall.

I’m very determined and stubborn. There’s a desire in me that makes me want to do more and more, and to do it right. Each one of us has a fire in our heart for something. It’s our goal in life to find it and to keep it lit.