Rhode's international debut came in 1995, representing the United States. She quickly rose to prominence, winning a gold medal in double trap at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta at just 17 years old. This achievement made her the youngest female athlete to win an Olympic gold medal in shooting.

Challenges and Comebacks

Rhode faced numerous medical challenges following the birth of her son Carter in 2013. Complications required her to take several months off from the sport and undergo surgery to remove her gall bladder. Despite these setbacks, she won a bronze medal in skeet at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

Switching Disciplines

After the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, Rhode switched from double trap to skeet due to the former being dropped from the Olympic programme. This transition was challenging as she competed against seasoned athletes who had been practising skeet for decades.

Influences and Philosophy

Rhode credits her father, Richard Rhode, who also serves as her coach, as the most influential person in her career. She looks up to US shooters Lori Desatoff, John Shima, and Wayne Mayes as her idols. Her sporting philosophy emphasises mental strength and hand-eye coordination.

Awards and Honours

Throughout her career, Rhode has received numerous accolades. She was named Female Shooter of the Year by USA Shooting multiple times and was honoured as ISSF Female Shooter of the Year in 2017. Additionally, she was named Best Female Athlete at the 2015 Pan American Games in Toronto.

Milestones

Rhode's bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics made her the first shooting sport athlete from any nation to win a medal at six consecutive Olympic Games. She also became the first US athlete from any sport to achieve this feat at six consecutive summer Games.

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, Rhode aims to compete at the 2024 and 2028 Olympic Games. She has expressed a desire to participate in "eight or nine" more Olympic Games and hopes to break the record for the oldest athlete to win an Olympic medal.

Other Activities

Beyond her athletic career, Rhode has been active in various roles within the shooting community. In September 2018, she was elected chair of the International Shooting Sport Federation Athletes Committee, succeeding Indian shooter Abhinav Bindra. She also serves as a board member of the National Rifle Association in the United States.

Kim Rhode's journey is a testament to resilience and dedication. Her achievements continue to inspire many within and beyond the world of sports.