Marcel Hirscher Photos: Jorg Mitter
Now Call It a Comeback: Marcel Hirscher Eyes World Cup Return
Back on Track After Injury
Marcel Hirscher has passed every medical test, just over six months after tearing his cruciate ligament and undergoing knee surgery. That clearance marks a major milestone in his return to ski racing.
“More than a thousand hours of rehab, therapy and strength training in 197 days since my surgery,” Hirscher said. “In the end, it comes down to two questions: What do I want from life? And what does life want from me? Even in the toughest moments, my answer has always stayed the same: to race again.”
A New Perspective
For the eight-time overall World Cup champion, injury offered unexpected insight.
“You realize the things we take for granted — health, recovery, motivation — aren’t guaranteed,” he said. “This was something I hadn’t gone through yet, and it gave me strength.”
While building his growing ski equipment business, Hirscher never lost sight of his desire to return to competition. Now, with the physical rehabilitation completed and a sharpened focus ahead, that comeback is becoming real.
Cleared to Compete
Following his medical clearance, the FIS awarded Hirscher 17 wild cards — carried over from last season. That decision sets the stage for a high-profile return after more than five years away from the World Cup.
With that, he embraces a word he had deliberately avoided — until now.
“I was injured and I’m coming back,” he said. “Now call it a comeback.”
Focused on What’s Next
Training is ramping up.
“I’m transitioning from rehab to athlete mode. More volume, higher intensity — it doesn’t look like physical therapy and it doesn’t feel like it either,” Hirscher said. “It’s going to be a sporty summer.”
His schedule remains full with family, friends, travel and business. Still, he stays committed to his comeback and grateful for the support surrounding him.
The next key step comes in September, when Hirscher plans to ski again for the first time since his injury. That training block will determine when he’s ready to return to the World Cup start gate.
“From today’s perspective, I can’t say for sure when I’ll finally be back in a race,” he said. “But if it’s up to me, then sooner rather than later.”
— Information provided by Van Deer–Red Bull Sports..
About the Author: SR Staff Report
