She made a surprising career shift.
Anita Alvarez, who has represented Team USA in artistic swimming at three Olympic Games, has recently shifted her career following a serious medical incident during a competition. In 2022, she lost consciousness during her solo performance at the FINA World Championships, an event that drew significant attention after her coach quickly intervened to save her. This episode highlighted concerns about athlete safety within the sports world.
After her recovery, Alvarez returned to the international stage and played a key role in helping Team USA secure a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. She has now embarked on a new path by enlisting in the United States Air Force. Having completed basic training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, she joined the Air Force’s World Class Athlete Program (WCAP), which supports elite athletes in continuing their sports careers while serving in the military.
Alvarez is excited about the chance to combine her athletic pursuits with military service, viewing it as a rare opportunity to represent both her country and the Air Force. As the first Olympic medalist to join the WCAP through the Air Force, she feels this new chapter has provided her with renewed motivation and a clear direction for her future beyond competitive sports.
She is currently focused on preparing for the 2025 World Championships and credits her time in basic training with strengthening her leadership skills and personal growth. Looking further ahead, Alvarez aims to compete in the 2028 Olympics while maintaining her commitment to the Air Force long after her swimming career ends.
Her story is one of resilience and vision, demonstrating how she is balancing her sports ambitions with a meaningful role in military service, preparing for life both in and out of the pool.
