Olympic Underdog Missy Franklin

Four years ago, the simple story of Missy Franklin turned her into America’s sweetheart. At just 17-years-old she came from nowhere, entering the 2012 London Games. This young woman won four gold medals and broke records – becoming a star overnight.

Here she is again at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio, ready to pick up right where she left off. However, this has not come without a lot of tough and intensive work, fighting off self-doubts and struggling with her swim times. Through all the grit and determination, she is fighting to meet her own tough standards at the Olympics.

It all came to a head, at the Olympic swim trials, where Franklin finished the 100-meter backstroke in 7th place, failing to get on the U.S. team. However, she did qualify for the Olympic team in three other swim events but is still slower than her personal best in 2014.

The name Missy is a diminutive of Melissa, which means “bee” in Greek. The name was taken from a nymph in Greek mythology, who cared for young Zeus. This name is also bestowed upon the fairy who helped Rogero, in Ludovico Ariosto’s poem “Orlando Furioso.”

The name Melissa, and all its variations has been used as an English name since the 18th century. However, it can be seen in many other languages, from Melitta in German to Melika in Hawaiian. There are a few variants, like Melyssa or the Ancient Greek name Melitta. Missy Franklin is now a part of the list.