2023 Masters Olympia Women’s Physique Champion Ivie Rhein announced her retirement from competition. The eight-year pro called it a close on her bodybuilding career on Aug. 7, 2024, to her 104,000 followers in an Instagram post:
“After much reflection, I made the decision to step away from the stage,” Rhein said. “No, it was not an easy decision, but it was a decision that brought peace to my heart. I achieved much more than I ever imagined in such a short period of time. I traveled, met places and people around the world, and was lucky enough to make some friends. I only have incredible memories and am very proud of my journey.”
According to NPC News Online, Rhein made her pro debut in 2017 at the Orlando Pro with a fourth-place finish. She ended her rookie season by placing sixth at the 2017 Ferrigno Legacy. Rhein earned her first pro win at the 2019 Portugal Pro, which qualified her for that year’s Olympia. Her Olympia debut resulted in a 15th-place finish.
Many fans became aware of Rhein after she claimed victory at the 2020 Tampa Pro. She competed in that year’s Olympia, jumping 10 ranks to fifth place. Her third pro win came at the 2021 Toronto Pro, which led to her third straight Olympia appearance. She ranked seventh overall at the 2021 Olympia.
Rhein placed fifth in the 2022 Women’s Physique Olympia, won by Natalia Abraham Coelho. Rhein’s last, arguably most successful, full season was in 2023. She won the Texas Pro and her division’s inaugural Masters Olympia title before ending the season on the 2023 Olympia stage, ranking sixth behind champion Sarah Villegas.
Rhein’s final contest was the 2023 Olympia. She had yet to compete in the 2024 season, and her retirement is reportedly effective immediately. Her career ended with five pro wins and five Olympia appearances.
Rhein is the second IFBB Pro League athlete to retire in the month of August 2024. Men’s Open pro Phil Clahar announced his retirement following the 2024 Tampa Pro.
Featured Image: @ivierhein on Instagram
