Although she is only 26 years old, born on January 17, 1998, Nicole Eleftheriadou decided to say a big “goodbye” to water polo. She suddenly emerges from the pool, hastily removes her cap, and closes a huge chapter of her athletic career.
It was clearly a decision that was not made in the heat of the moment by the experienced athlete, but after mature reflection and prioritization of her goals. The international water polo player has achieved what few at her age have, especially four European trophies with Olympiacos, and she deemed the summer of 2024 as the most suitable time to transition to the next phase of her life.
Nicole Eleftheriadou’s “Goodbye”
“Sometimes words are not enough to convey a story in its entirety, and I feel that whatever I write below is impossible to reflect all that I have experienced with you over these nine wonderful years,” Eleftheriadou wrote in her farewell message.
“I remember like it was today, the day I signed my first contract with Olympiacos. I was very nervous and equally eager for my new beginning, but how could I have imagined that it was just the beginning of such a large and beautiful chapter in my life?
How could I have imagined that this huge club – synonymous with the passion for victory and tireless pursuit of excellence – would not only give me incredible successes but would also shape me as a person? That it would teach me to fight for what I want, not to be afraid, and to consider nothing impossible?
Now that the time has come to close the chapter of my athletic career, I dare not imagine a more ideal ending. Having achieved everything with Olympiacos, and primarily the right to consider them my everlasting family,” she continued in her post.
As she honestly explained, “the decision to ‘hang up’ my cap is absolutely conscious and finds me more fulfilled and complete than ever. That’s why I don’t cry because it’s over. I smile because it happened…”
Nicole Eleftheriadou’s “Thank You” to Olympiacos
In her farewell, she did not want to forget anyone. “I owe a huge thank you to the President of the Amateur Olympiacos, Mr. Michalis Kountouris, for his belief in me, as well as for our excellent collaboration. Thank you very much to all my coaches, assistant coaches, the team manager, and our physiotherapist throughout these years. They all helped me reach where I dreamed.
The biggest thank you from my heart belongs to my teammates. Together we created lifelong memories and celebrated every title in Greece and Europe! It’s amazing what can happen when a team bonds.
Finally, I would like to express my gratitude to the Olympiacos fans, from whom I have received so much love. You have always been there, and each of you holds a special place in my heart.
Thank you, Olympiacos!”