Erin Banks shares a message to his fans stating that he will be shifting his focus more towards family after his 3rd place finish at the 2024 Olympia
The 2024 Mr. Olympia weekend delivered another unforgettable spectacle, with athletes pushing themselves to the limit in pursuit of the ultimate bodybuilding glory. However, for former Men’s Physique Olympia champion Erin Banks, this year’s competition marked a turning point in his career and life. After securing a third-place finish, Banks seems to have hinted at stepping away from the competitive stage, sharing heartfelt reflections and plans for the future on Instagram, October 13-14, 2024.
After an eventful weekend at the 2024 Olympia, Erin Banks shared two posts breaking down his thoughts after placing 3rd in the Men’s Physique division. Both posts seemed to look toward the past four years as an end of an era – as he hinted towards “shifting his focus” and putting more time into family. Though he stops short of stating that he is officially stepping away from competitive bodybuilding.
The two posts also take note to thank his sponsors, fans, and his coach – which he considers family. The entire two statements feel like a turning point. You can see the posts below.
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Embracing a New Role: Fatherhood
In his post, Erin Banks expressed deep gratitude for his journey over the past four years, emphasizing the support he received from fans, sponsors, and his coach. But the standout message was his declaration to focus on his role as a father, stepping away from the intense demands of competitive bodybuilding.
“These last four years have been an incredible journey, filled with highs and challenges, growth and victories,” Banks wrote. “I’m beyond grateful for the unwavering support that has fueled me along the way. But now, it’s time for me to shift my focus.”
Banks shared that his new priority is to dedicate time and energy to his children, fully embracing the role of being a father.
“My greatest role yet is being a FATHER, and my time and energy will be fully dedicated to that. I’m stepping into this next chapter with the same passion and commitment, giving 1000% to my kids,” he shared, making it clear that while his focus is changing, his commitment remains just as intense.
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A Bond Beyond the Stage
Alongside his heartfelt reflections, Banks also took time to recognize the impact of his coach, who had been by his side throughout his competitive journey. Banks praised his coach for being a mentor and a source of strength during the toughest times in his career.
“I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the past four years. You’ve been more than just a coach, you’ve been a mentor, a guide, and a source of support throughout my entire bodybuilding journey,” Banks wrote. He highlighted the unique bond they share, describing it as a relationship that transcends training. “You’re not just my coach, but someone I consider family. I love you like a brother, and I’ll always carry that with me, no matter where this journey takes us.”
Banks’ emotional tribute made it clear that while his competitive future may be uncertain, the brotherhood he shares with his coach remains a constant.
A Rollercoaster of a Career
Erin Banks’ journey in the world of Men’s Physique has been nothing short of remarkable. The former champion rose to prominence with a stunning victory at the 2022 Mr. Olympia, cementing his status as one of the sport’s top contenders. But after a setback at the 2023 Legions Sports Fest Pro, where he fell short of first place, a new chapter in Banks’ story began to unfold.
In 2023, Banks returned to the Mr. Olympia stage with a determination to reclaim the title. Despite showcasing his signature thick back and a well-rounded physique, he had to settle for third place, as Ryan Terry claimed gold, with former champ Brandon Hendrickson taking the silver. Banks vowed to come back stronger in 2024, eyeing a return to the top.
This year’s competition saw Banks fighting hard again, but with Hendrickson’s unexpected withdrawal, it was still Terry who reigned supreme, leaving Banks to once more accept a third-place finish. With this result, Banks took to social media to share a series of reflective posts, revealing that he would be taking a step back from bodybuilding to embrace a new direction in life.
What’s Next for Erin Banks?
Before the 2024 Mr. Olympia, Erin Banks hinted at a potential switch to the Classic Physique division, but with his recent reflections, it’s now unclear if he will pursue that path. Fans are left wondering what the future holds for Banks as he steps away from the Men’s Physique division to focus on his family.
Despite the uncertainty, there’s no denying the impact Banks has had on the Men’s Physique category and the sport of bodybuilding. His presence brought a level of excitement and competition that fans will not soon forget, and even as he shifts his focus, his legacy remains firmly intact.
A Legacy in Bodybuilding
Though his career might be taking a different turn, Erin Banks’ contributions to bodybuilding will be remembered. His resilience, hard work, and sportsmanship on the Olympia stage have inspired many in the fitness community. As he moves forward into a new phase of life, focusing on family and fatherhood, the community he leaves behind wishes him the best on this new chapter of his journey.
The 2024 Men’s Physique Olympia may have seen the end of one chapter for Erin Banks, but as he steps into a new role with the same passion he brought to the stage, it’s clear that the next part of his story is just beginning.
