A Sudden End to a Heartfelt Journey
“This is a tough stop for my love project of coming back to ski racing,” Hirscher said, reflecting on the abrupt end to his return. “I always thought my ACL was strong enough that this would never happen in my career. But now, I face a different reality—it’s torn.”
The injury, sustained during a routine training run, caught Hirscher off guard. “It was so unexpected. It’s strange and confusing when you think you have everything under control, but suddenly you don’t,” he said.
Despite the setback, Hirscher acknowledged his fortune in avoiding similar injuries during his storied career. “For 35 years, I was lucky not to deal with this sort of injury, even during the peak of my career when I was performing at the highest level,” he added. “This is part of our sport; I’ve been lucky for a long time.”
Gratitude and Fond Memories
Hirscher expressed gratitude for the past eight months of his comeback journey. “I’m very thankful for the time when I believed in myself, and so many others believed in me too. We created unbelievable memories—great turns and a lot of skiing, which I still love so much,” he shared.
While disappointed that he won’t be able to prove what he’s still capable of on the World Cup circuit, he emphasized the joy he found in the process. “Skiing means so much to me. It’s indescribable,” Hirscher said.
Focusing on Recovery
Hirscher’s surgery was a success, performed by Dr. Jürgen Mandl and Dr. Mark Passl at the Ragnitz Private Clinic. He is now concentrating on his recovery. “I’m very focused on being free of pain, getting back home, and starting rehab,” he explained.
Acknowledging the irony of his situation, he joked, “Now I’m an original ski racer—dealing with my first ACL injury.”
Love for the Sport Endures
Despite the setback, Hirscher’s love for skiing remains steadfast. “The love for ski racing and skiing in general will stay. That is no question,” he affirmed.
Hirscher closed the interview with a positive outlook. “Thanks, everyone. Wishing you a great winter with lots of joy and pleasure. I’ll be watching the races on TV,” he said.
A Champion’s Resilience
While Hirscher’s return to competition has been short, his passion and gratitude serve as a testament to his enduring legacy. Fans worldwide will undoubtedly feel his absence, but they can take comfort knowing that his love for the sport remains unshaken.
Video of the incident that caused injury, click image
Related article: Marcel Hirscher’s Comeback Cut Short by ACL Injury
About the Author: Peter Lange
