Once hailed as one of America’s brightest young sprinters, Abby Steiner electrified the track and field world with her blistering speed and record-breaking performances. She was a collegiate superstar at the University of Kentucky. More so, back in 2022, she even carved her name into the history books with one of the fastest 200m times ever run by a collegiate woman (21.80), surpassing Gabby Thomas (22.38). But after years of injuries and setbacks, the former sprint prodigy has shifted her focus away from the track and is now embracing a new chapter in life.

On October 14, Steiner shared a few pictures on Instagram featuring an engagement ring on her left hand. There was no caption, no explanation. Just the cascade of three images. The post quickly drew an outpouring of love and wishes from fans and fellow athletes, marking a major personal milestone for the 25-year-old former star.

Three days ago, Abby Steiner shared a few more pictures on Instagram. The former sprint star captioned the post, “We’re getting married!!!!” Tagged in the post was her fellow collegiate athlete, Beck O’Daniel. On his Instagram page, O’Daniel confirmed the ceremony with a picture of the couple and a caption that read, “Looks like it is time for another O’Daniel wedding! Finally worked up the nerve to put a ring on it. Can’t wait to officially bring my best friend into the family ❤️.” 

And with that, Steiner is moving forward into the next big chapter of her life with Beck O’Daniel by her side. But that does not mean that fans won’t ever get to see Steiner’s return to the track.

Abby Steiner makes an emotional announcement regarding her track career

In 2023, a bone spur in her left heel pressed against Steiner’s Achilles’ tendon and required surgical intervention. But this only caused more problems for the NCAA star later in 2024. The woman who got a gold medal for Team USA with her 49.99-second split (as part of the U.S. quartet that finished in 3:17.79) in the 4x400m relay at the 2022 World Championships failed to participate in the Paris Olympics because of her injuries. But now, she has taken a different route. 

Back in August 2025, Abby Steiner shared an Instagram post featuring herself in front of a USC sign. In the caption, she wrote, “2025 so far – had a 3rd surgery on my left foot, passed the NSCA CSCS exam, and got accepted into the University of South Carolina MS in Exercise Science program. Taking a step back from running for the time being to give myself the time I need to get healthy while pursuing some other passions of mine. Very excited for this Gamecocks chapter!! 🐓”  Hence, Steiner took some time off from the track, in order get recover from her injury.

Steiner’s journey shows that an athlete’s story doesn’t really end when the races do. From shattering records on the track to starting a new life with Beck O’Daniel and pursuing her academic passions, she’s proving that growth comes in many forms. While her spikes may stay shelved for a while, her determination continues to shape an inspiring new chapter.