Missy Franklin Finally Gets the Mark of True Olympic Champion with Tattoo

Missy Franklin has the gold and now she has the highly-coveted tattoo, something every athlete dreams of getting. 

One of the best stories from the London Olympics was 17-year-old Missy Franklin, who swims for the pure love of it and the pride she has in competing for her country. 

She tweeted her newest prize on Thursday via her Twitter feed.

"

All inked up😄 AHH! Can't believe it! My one and only! twitter.com/FranklinMissy/…

— Missy Franklin (@FranklinMissy) August 16, 2012"

The high school superstar swimmer made sure to get the blessing of the parents first, something mandated by her age. 

She spoke about all of that last week in an interview with NBC's Today. 

"

Getting a tattoo has never been something I ever thought I would do, but this one just has so much meaning to it and it is really something that you have to earn. It’s an honor to have it.

"

Her parents were in perfect agreement over the matter. Her father stated, "It’s the only tattoo she’ll get—and she’s earned it."

I am not a huge tattoo guy. In fact, I hate them. 

Now don't get me wrong, because I believe a great many of them are fine works of art and can admire them in others. 

I just don't ever see myself getting one. 

This is different though, because the Olympic tattoo is a symbol of tireless effort, sacrifice and a truly remarkable accomplishment. 

Not anyone can just sit down and get the rings and have them mean something. So it's a no-brainer that Franklin would get the rings and be absolutely ecstatic over the fact. 

Wear them proud, Missy. You earned them. 

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