MARCEL HIRSCHER SUFFERED A CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RUPTURE; THE OPERATION WAS A SUCCESS
Marcel Hirscher’s highly anticipated return to alpine ski racing has ended prematurely due to a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee. The eight-time overall World Cup champion sustained the injury during a training session on Monday at Reiteralm, Austria. The injury, described as a “harmless slip” caused by an inside ski error, also included minor damage to the outer capsule of his knee but did not involve a fall.
“Cruciate ligament gone, project over!” Hirscher stated calmly after an MRI at Dr. Harald Aufmesser’s practice confirmed his worst fears. Medical staff immediately transported Marcel Hirscher to Graz, where Dr. Jürgen Mandl and Dr. Mark Passl successfully performed a 90-minute surgery at the Ragnitz Private Clinic.
“The anterior cruciate ligament in the left knee was torn, and the outer capsule apparatus was slightly affected. These are the best possible conditions for recovery,” the doctors explained, noting that physiotherapy can begin right away. Hirscher will remain under observation for two to three days before returning home.
The injury halts a remarkable comeback story. Hirscher, who retired five years ago after dominating the World Cup for nearly a decade as an Austrian, had returned to competition this season skiing for the Netherlands, his mother’s native country. He gained entry under a new FIS “Wildcard” rule designed to ease the return of retired superstars.
“Of course, it’s a tough cut after eight months of heartfelt work and huge plans for the winter,” Hirscher reflected. “It will be hard to watch the races, but I’m proud of the contributions I made to VAN DEER-Red Bull Sports and our athletes’ future success. These eight months were intense, and I had a lot of fun. Maybe I’m finally done with my journey.”
Hirscher’s setback is a major blow to the ski racing world, where fans had eagerly awaited his return. As he begins his recovery, Hirscher expressed gratitude to his team and supporters for making his comeback possible. “This is part of the game,” he acknowledged, demonstrating the same calm composure that defined his illustrious career.
Information source: press release Van Deer Red Bull Sports
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