Hirscher is fighting after a torn cruciate ligament: comeback or end of career?

Hirscher is fighting after a torn cruciate ligament: comeback or end of career?

Marcel Hirscher, the ski superstar, recently made headlines after suffering a torn cruciate ligament in his left knee while training at the Reiteralm - after an impressive career that saw him become a double Olympic champion and seven-time world champion. This injury, which marks the end of his 2024 season, could also mean the end of his playing career. When asked about the future, Hirscher said: "It will definitely be hard to watch the races. Maybe I'm finally finished with my journey now," he said today.at reported. Nevertheless, there is hope, especially from Hans Knauß, an ÖSV icon, who is committed to a comeback for the 35-year-old.

Hurdles and hopes for a comeback

Hirscher, who will no longer compete for Austria but for the Netherlands after retiring five years ago, expressed cautious optimism in an interview. Although he had to admit that an immediate start was unlikely and that he was still behind in training, he believes in his chance of qualifying for the upcoming World Championships in Saalbach-Hinterglemm. “The competition in our own country, i.e. in the Dutch Ski Association, is not too great,” he explained, which gives him an advantage eurosport.de.

Despite these positive prospects, Hirscher tempered his fans' expectations. He emphasized that returning after five years is not easy and he is not sure whether he can maintain the level from before. "A top 15 place would not be realistic at the moment. There are still four seconds to catch up," continued Hirscher. His focus is now on health and fitness, which is more important to him than the quick time between goals. “But never say never,” he added, keeping hope alive for a return to the world of skiing.