"I'm always telling people to chase their dreams and follow their hearts -- if I don't live by that I'm not being honest with myself," he said, via The Associated Press. "I'm so passionate about the challenge that lies ahead for me, not only as an athlete but more so as a person. It's the hardest decision I have ever had to make in my life ... but for me to grow as an athlete and a person I feel this is the right step to take."