When we talk about timeless achievers who conquered both sports and business, Debbie Haas Meyer — better known as Debbie Meyer — stands among the most inspiring. From Olympic swimming glory to creating multi-million-dollar household products, her life beautifully blends passion, perseverance, and purpose.
Early Life and Education
Full Name: Debbie Haas Meyer (Debbie Meyer)
Date of Birth: August 14, 1952
Age (as of 2025): 73 years
Birthplace: Annapolis, Maryland, USA
Born at the Naval Academy Hospital in Annapolis, Debbie grew up in a disciplined military family. Her father’s career caused frequent moves, shaping her adaptability early on. One of those moves took the family to Sacramento, California, where she attended Rio Americano High School.
It was there that her destiny began to unfold. Under the guidance of her legendary coach Sherm Chavoor at the Arden Hills Swim Club, Debbie adopted a revolutionary “over-distance training” technique that turned her into a world-class swimmer.
Rise to Olympic Stardom
At just 16 years old, Debbie Meyer became a global sensation.
During the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, she made history as the first woman ever to win three individual freestyle gold medals — in the 200m, 400m, and 800m events.
Her unmatched determination and stamina led to an extraordinary career that included:
- 3 Olympic Gold Medals (1968)
- 15 World Records
- 24 American Records
- 19 National Titles
Her dominance in the pool earned her the nickname “The Golden Girl of Swimming.”
Life After the Olympics: A New Chapter of Success
After retiring from competitive swimming, Debbie turned her drive toward business. In 1993, she launched the Debbie Meyer Swim School in Carmichael, California, training thousands of young swimmers and passing on her Olympic discipline.
But her true business breakthrough came when she became an inventor and entrepreneur.
In 1999, she founded Housewares America, Inc., and by 2005, she introduced her signature innovation — Debbie Meyer GreenBags®. These reusable bags keep fruits and vegetables fresh longer and became an instant hit, selling over one billion units worldwide.
She later expanded with Debbie Meyer GreenBoxes™, cementing her status as one of the most successful athlete-turned-entrepreneurs in the U.S.
Debbie Haas Meyer Net Worth
While her exact wealth isn’t publicly disclosed, analysts estimate Debbie Haas Meyer’s net worth to be between $1 million and $5 million.
| Source of Income | Details | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Swimming Career | Olympic wins, awards, and public appearances | $500K+ |
| Business Ventures | GreenBags®, GreenBoxes™, Swim School | $1M–$5M |
| Royalties & Licensing | Product patents and brand collaborations | Undisclosed |
Her blend of athletic fame and product innovation makes her one of the few Olympians to build lasting wealth beyond her sporting years.
Debbie Haas Meyer’s Love Life
Beyond the spotlight, Debbie’s personal life has also captured public interest — especially her relationships with two well-known men.
| Relationship | Details |
|---|---|
| First Husband | Andy Williams (married 1991–2012). Andy was a beloved American singer best known for “Moon River.” Though they had no children together, Debbie was deeply involved in his life until his passing in 2012. |
| Second Husband | Bill Weber, whom she married after Andy’s death. The couple shares three private children and lives a quiet family life away from media attention. |
Despite her fame, Debbie has always maintained humility and privacy — choosing to focus on her family and business rather than the limelight.
🏆 Awards and Recognition
Debbie’s achievements extend far beyond medals and money. Her legacy includes numerous honors:
- Olympic Hall of Fame Inductee (1977)
- AAU Sullivan Award Winner (1968)
- Associated Press Athlete of the Year (1968)
- Named One of the “100 Greatest Olympians of All Time”
Her story continues to inspire athletes and entrepreneurs around the world.
Fun Facts About Debbie Haas Meyer
- She was only 16 when she won three Olympic gold medals.
- Her GreenBags® products have been featured on QVC and HSN worldwide.
- She still teaches swimming to kids in California.
- Debbie believes success comes from discipline, humility, and consistency.
❓FAQ
Q: What is Debbie Haas Meyer’s current age?
She is 73 years old as of 2025.
Q: What is Debbie Haas Meyer’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is between $1 million and $5 million, primarily from her business ventures.
Q: Who is Debbie Haas Meyer married to?
She was first married to Andy Williams and later to Bill Weber, with whom she currently lives.
Q: What is Debbie Meyer best known for?
Her historic triple gold medal win in the 1968 Olympics and her success as the inventor of Debbie Meyer GreenBags®.
Final Thoughts
Debbie Haas Meyer’s life proves that greatness isn’t limited to one chapter.
From her golden Olympic triumphs to building a multi-million-dollar empire, she has shown what passion, innovation, and resilience can achieve.
At 73, she continues to inspire — not just as an athlete or entrepreneur, but as a woman who turned her dreams into a lifelong legacy.
