In 1986, there was a Sports Illustrated cover. In 1987, there was a U.S. national title. In 1988, the world expected to see Kristie Phillips at the Olympic Games. It never happened. The media speculated it was because she had gained weight. Distraught and devastated, she stepped away from the sport for nearly a decade. In the end, Phillips returned to competition, made her peace with the sport, and now is a respected gymnastics judge.
With the U.S. Open underway, Serena Williams and Roger Federer might be receiving all the attention for defying Father Time, but they aren’t the only players who seem to be thriving longer than expected. Away from the cameras, older amateurs are giving their younger counterparts unexpected competition.
Serena Williams, 37, regarded as one of the greatest doubles players of all time (Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)
Adult Gymnastics 