It looks like Michelle Kwan has finally opted not to pursue another Olympic bid; CNNSI reports that she will start graduate school at Tufts University in Massachusetts this fall. She'll be studying international affairs and will not compete in the 2009-2010 season. From the article:
"Skating will always be a part of me,'' said Kwan, who remains one of the most popular skaters in the world. "But in the bigger picture of my life, I have always wanted to find a career that will allow me to make a positive contribution and difference in the world.
"Representing the United States as an American public diplomacy envoy the past three years has been very rewarding, and I want to do more. Furthering my education will bring me closer to that goal, and I don't want to wait any longer to continue the journey.''
I'm very happy that this is finally resolved. For the last year we've had to monitor Michelle Kwan's every move and vague statement and wonder 'will she or won't she.' She's an amazing Olympian and to quote Sandra Bezic during Kwan's 2002 Olympic exhibition, "success isn't always measured by a gold medal." I hope she comes starts doing some more ice shows (in addition to the upcoming Yu-na Kim show in South Korea) because we have definitely missed her and all that she brings to the ice.