ABSTRACT
The often-idealized life of professional athletes can include an array of challenges that come along with competing at the professional level. In this chapter, we examine some of the challenges professional athletes encounter. Drawing from empirically based research and media articles, topics explored within this chapter include increased pressures and demands, relocating, injuries, and retirement. We unpack each topic by examining related stressors, stressor effects, exemplar anecdotes, and recommendations for sport psychology practitioners to address these stressors and effects.
