Tokyo Olympic beach volleyball gold medalist Alix Klineman has officially announced her retirement from the sport. This decision comes shortly after her partner, April Ross, revealed her plans to move on as well. The duo will be participating in their final event together at the AVP League championship in Carson, California.
April Ross, aged 42, boasts an impressive career, having led Southern California to consecutive NCAA championships in indoor volleyball before transitioning to beach volleyball. Her Olympic journey includes a silver medal in London, a bronze in Rio, and a gold alongside Klineman in Tokyo. Ross, who became a mother last year and tied the knot in September, shared her retirement announcement on Instagram, expressing gratitude for her fulfilling career.
Alix Klineman, 34, a former four-time All-American in indoor volleyball at Stanford, made the switch to beach volleyball in 2017. Her Olympic debut in Tokyo culminated in a gold medal victory alongside Ross, marking a significant milestone in her career.
In a heartfelt retirement video, Klineman addressed her evolving priorities since becoming a mother to her son, Theo, last year. She emphasized the shift in focus from solely volleyball to her family, acknowledging the need to prioritize her new responsibilities. Klineman expressed her desire to dedicate herself fully to motherhood without compromising on her role as a parent.
Both athletes have left an indelible mark on the world of beach volleyball, with their partnership culminating in Olympic success. As they bid farewell to competitive play, fans and fellow athletes alike celebrate their remarkable contributions to the sport.
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