Greg Louganis, widely considered one of the greatest Olympic divers in history, has made a monumental life change. At 65 years old, the celebrated US athlete has sold his California home and auctioned three of his prized Olympic medals to finance a move to Panama, a decision he openly discussed with his followers.
In a candid Facebook post, Louganis revealed that he “needed the money” to embark on this new chapter. He noted that the three medals—two golds and one silver—exceeded his expectations at auction, fetching a combined total of $437,000.
Louganis reflected on the difficult but necessary choice to sell his most iconic possessions. “I told the truth; I needed the money,” he wrote. He also touched on past career choices, adding, “While many people may have built businesses and sold them for a profit, I had my medals, which I am grateful for. If I had proper management, I might not have been in that position, but what is done is done; live and learn.”
The diving legend, who won five Olympic medals between 1976 and 1988, also shared details of his home sale. He expressed his happiness with the new owners, saying, “I am VERY happy with whom I sold it to.” He also performed a symbolic act of closure, “I thanked and blessed the house to bring joy, love, peace, happiness, and a sense of safety to those who entered the house.”
Louganis’s decision to shed his possessions was also inspired by the resilience of close friends who lost their homes in the recent Woolsey and Palisades wildfires. He explained that their ability to start anew motivated him to do the same. “I know I am choosing to do this, but their resilience is an inspiration for me to start anew, with an open heart and an open door. Opening up to possibilities,” he wrote.
This bold move marks a major transition for the Olympic icon, who is leaving his roots behind in the US to start over overseas.
Olympic Legend Greg Louganis Sells Home And Medals For A Fresh Start In Panama
