US diving legend Greg Louganis sells Olympic medals and California home to begin new life in Panama

US Olympic diving legend Greg Louganis, 65, has sold his California home and three of his prized Olympic medals to begin a new life abroad. Louganis, often called the greatest diver in history, revealed that he “needed the money” to make this bold move.

The five-time Olympic medalist confirmed that he has relocated to Panama after auctioning two gold medals and one silver medal for a combined $437,000 earlier this year. He said the decision was emotional but necessary as he looks for a fresh start.

Greg Louganis explains decision to sell Olympic medals and house

Greg Louganis won his Olympic medals across three Games: Montreal in 1976, Los Angeles in 1984, and Seoul in 1988. He remains the only man to win back-to-back golds in both springboard and platform diving.

Despite such history, Louganis admitted that selling his medals was the best option.

“I told the truth; I needed the money,” Louganis wrote on Facebook last weekend. “While many people may have sold businesses for a profit, I had my medals. I am grateful for that.”The retired athlete said he was pleased with the sale outcome because he earned more than expected by being honest about his needs. Alongside the medals, Louganis also sold his longtime house in California.

He added that he felt “very happy” about the family that purchased it. “I thanked and blessed the house to bring joy, love, peace, happiness, and safety to those who enter,” he said.He also parted with many personal belongings. Greg Louganis said he was inspired by friends who lost their homes and possessions in the Woolsey and Palisades wildfires in California earlier this year. “Their resilience motivated me to start fresh with an open heart and open door,” he wrote.Also Read: Bodybuilding legend Ronnie Coleman shares workout video weeks after life-threatening medical battle

Greg Louganis looks ahead to self-discovery in Panama

Greg Louganis revealed that moving to Panama marks a personal journey. “Now I get to discover who is Greg Louganis, without the noise from outside. My goal is to live it, to nurture that human spirit,” he said.Since retiring from diving, Greg Louganis has worked as an actor, motivational speaker, and sports commentator. In 1994, he publicly came out as gay, and a year later shared that he was HIV-positive.Now, as he begins life at 65 in Panama, the Olympic icon hopes this chapter will help him explore who he is beyond medals, titles, and public recognition.