As an athlete, I've always been very proud to represent the United States.

At 13, I was fearless. I looked at everything so positive. When you're older and been through it all, you know how bad it can get. There is a fear of failing.

You can always say, 'I wish I had landed that triple flip better, or I wish I didn't fall.' They're not regrets, just mistakes.

As I've gotten older and grown more independent, I think for myself, and that's how it should be.

It's incredible. Nine? Wow. I just remember winning my first one, getting the medal and the plate, the pin with the diamond for first place. My ninth title, I have no answer for that because I never thought it would be possible.

There's a lot of emotions that always come out after a skate of a lifetime. I always start crying because there is so much buildup to that competition.

Winning is not about how many medals you get-it's about accomplishing goals and just being the best you can be!