RETIREMENT FROM ELITE LEVEL ARTISTIC GYMNASTICS IN BRAZIL: THE REASONS FOR LEAVING THE SPORT

The retirement from elite Artistic Gymnastics represent a crucial moment in the careers of athletes who have devoted a significant portion of their lives to the sport. This phenomenon not only marks the conclusion of a competitive journey but also prompts fundamental questions regarding the transition to a new phase in the lives of these gymnasts. In this context, this article endeavors to explore the factors that influence the decision to retire from elite Artistic Gymnastics in Brazil. Understanding these aspects is paramount not only for researchers but also for coaches, sports managers, and athletes alike, aiming to facilitate a smoother and more successful transition to post-competition life. The research adopted a qualitative approach, employing a descriptive study design, with semi-structured interviews as the chosen technique. The study involved 12 participants, former Brazilian Artistic Gymnastics athletes aged over 18, who retired from 2000 onwards. Throughout our investigation, we observed that athletes retired due to both voluntarily and involuntarily factors. Specially, four athletes retired due to injury (in the hip, shoulder, and lower back), one was dismissed from the club, and seven athletes retired by choice (to meet objectives, reaching the physical limit, pursuing higher education, seeking improved financial prospects, and experiencing conflicts with coaches or managers of the Brazilian national team). In conclusion, the transition of these athletes to post-competition life is a multifaceted process encompassing not only physical considerations but also emotional and social dimensions. Recognizing the factors to better address this challenge is imperative to ensure that gymnasts receive adequate support during this critical phase of transition.