Aamodt Kilde’s Comeback: Recovery, Setbacks, and New Focus

Aleksander Aamodt Kilde, the Norwegian skiing star, continues his challenging journey to return to the World Cup circuit after a devastating crash at the Lauberhorn in January 2024. His fiancée, fellow superstar Mikaela Shiffrin, has offered emotional support as Aamodt Kilde recovers from a dislocated shoulder and a severe leg injury. The road back is filled with physical and mental challenges, but Aamodt Kilde remains determined.

The Crash That Changed Everything

Aamodt Kilde’s crash in the final S of the Lauberhorn course may not have seemed severe initially, but the impact was life-changing. “It wasn’t actually that crazy a fall,” Kilde said on Marco Büchel’s podcast Mensch, Büchel. However, the injuries were severe—a dislocated shoulder and a deep cut on his calf. The 2019/20 overall World Cup winner has been battling to regain strength.

Emotional Struggles After the Injury

Mikaela Shiffrin provided a sobering insight into the terrifying moments following Kilde’s leg operation. “There were ten surgeons there, trying everything to patch him back together. It was a life-threatening moment,” she told SonntagsZeitung. When Kilde woke up, the situation became even more frightening as he couldn’t feel his legs. “He was totally scared, afraid his leg was gone,” Shiffrin recalled.

The Road to Recovery

Shiffrin has been Kilde’s “rock in the storm,” offering unwavering support as he faced panic attacks and fainting spells in the days after his fall. Despite this, Aamodt Kilde reached an important milestone in June 2024, returning to the snow for the first time. But just as hope grew, an unexpected infection in his shoulder led to another surgery.

Now, Aamodt Kilde is taking small steps in his recovery. His shoulder limits his training, and his calf still lacks strength and feeling. “I’m more of a normal person than an athlete now,” he said. To stay busy, Kilde has enrolled in an online course at the London School of Economics.

Looking Forward

While the start of the World Cup season nears, Aamodt Kilde’s return remains uncertain. Despite setbacks, he remains determined to make a comeback. “It’s not that easy, but I can do it,” he said, holding onto hope as he works toward recovery.

This article is based on reporting from Blick.ch