"In terms of my career, having the gold definitely changed my life. The Olympics are different, you know? They're every four years and it's such a small group"

Kristi Yamaguchi's quote speaks to the impact of winning an Olympic gold medal. She acknowledges that the Olympics are a distinct event, occurring only when every four years and including a little group of athletes. Winning a gold medal at the Olympics is a life-changing experience, and Yamaguchi's quote suggests that it has had an extensive effect on her profession. She implies that the gold medal has opened new chances for her, and has enabled her to reach a level of success that she may not have actually attained without it. The quote likewise speaks with the value of the Olympics as a platform for athletes to display their talents and acquire recognition. Yamaguchi's words recommend that the Olympics are a special occasion, and that winning a gold medal can have a lasting effect on a professional athlete's profession.