Walsh Jennings initially played indoor volleyball but switched to beach volleyball for family reasons. She explained, "I had been playing indoors for 12 years, but to make a living indoors you have to go overseas. I am such a family girl and just wanted to be home." This decision allowed her to balance her professional and personal life better.

Training and Coaching

Walsh Jennings trains on the beach for two hours a day, five days a week. Her regimen also includes strength training twice a week and pilates sessions three times a week. She is coached by Rich Lambourne and her husband, Casey Jennings.

Achievements and Awards

Walsh Jennings has been named Most Outstanding Player on the World Tour multiple times, including in 2007, 2012, 2013, and 2014. She has also been recognised as Best Blocker from 2005 to 2008, and in 2011, 2012, and 2014. Her accolades include being named Best Hitter and Best Offensive Player on several occasions.

Olympic Success

Walsh Jennings made history by becoming the first beach volleyball player to win four Olympic medals. She won bronze at the 2016 Rio Games. Alongside Misty May-Treanor, she won gold at the 2008 Beijing Games and the 2012 London Games, making them the first duo to win three Olympic gold medals in beach volleyball.

Injuries and Challenges

Throughout her career, Walsh Jennings has faced numerous injuries. In 2017, she underwent ankle and right shoulder surgery. Her right shoulder has required surgery six times since 1997. She also dealt with a pelvic stress fracture and a knee injury in 2014.

Personal Life

Kerri Walsh Jennings resides in Manhattan Beach, CA, USA with her husband Casey Jennings and their three children: sons Joey (born in 2009) and Sundance (born in 2010), and daughter Scout (born in 2013). She holds a degree in American Studies from Stanford University.

Business Ventures

In 2018, Walsh Jennings co-founded p1440, a sports digital media company with her husband. The venture includes a beach volleyball competition series in the United States that features live-streaming of events and other content promoting the sport. "Our sport has not innovated in 30 years," she said. "Our first objective is to up the game and really improve the financial side of professional beach volleyball."

Future Plans

Walsh Jennings plans to retire after the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games to focus on her family. "This is my sixth Olympics that I'm striving for," she said. "In my mind, it is going to be my last. I have three children who are getting older. I don't want to be missing their lives as much as this journey requires."

Partnerships

Since 2018, Walsh Jennings has partnered with Brooke Sweat. "I was so excited that Brooke wanted to play," she said. "She's elevated every single partnership she's ever had." Their collaboration aims to bring out the best in each other on the court.

Kerri Walsh Jennings' career is marked by dedication, resilience, and numerous accolades. As she looks forward to her final Olympic appearance in Tokyo, her legacy in beach volleyball remains strong.