2024 was going to be her last triathlon season anyway, including the World Championships Ironman in Nice as the final highlight, but her career as a triathlete is now coming to an early end: due to a serious injury, she has not been granted a farewell in style.
“Unfortunately, I have to announce that I’m retiring early and won’t be able to do any more races this year.
“My doctors have discovered the cause of the pain in my coccyx. The diagnosis is an inflammation at the end of the spinal cord (conus medullaris). I’ve been treating it with the hope of being able to race again towards the end of the year. We’ve tried everything to recover, but the treatment hasn’t been as effective as we had hoped. It’s time to respect the signs my body has been giving me. I have regained solid fitness, but the injury prevents me from training the volume and intensity I need to, to get back to the top level.
“This year, my goal was to give it my all one more time. The outcome is not what I hoped for, but knowing that we tried everything makes me feel at ease. I am grateful for what I have achieved over the years and the incredible performances my body has delivered.
“I am beyond thankful to my team, especially my coach, my girlfriend, and my friends and family for their support. I am grateful to my partners who have stood by my side, and I am excited for our projects next year.
“Letting go of the goals I’ve set for myself is hard and something I have never had to do before. This is why I have been struggling to make this decision, but my coach, my doctor, and I have decided it’s the right thing to do for my long-term health.
“It’s time to take it easier and enjoy life more. I look forward to the next chapter, even if it hurts to let go.
“I will be in Nice on the sidelines to celebrate triathlon with all of you. Last but not least, thank you to my fans for all the love, cheering, and support I’ve felt throughout my career. I will cherish this crazy journey forever.
“Don‘t be sad it’s over. Be happy that it happened!”
