German national team gymnast Mia Sophie Liatke died unexpectedly last Thursday at the age of just 16. This was announced on Tuesday by the German Gymnastics Federation. The exact cause of death is unknown.
The German Federation (DBT) wrote: "Not only rhythmic gymnastics, but the entire German gymnastics family mourns the loss of Mia Sophie Liatke. Our deepest condolences to Mia's family at this difficult time, and wish them all the strength in the world to cope with this sad event."
"Mia was very popular and appreciated by her teammates, as well as her coaches and staff due to her open and honest nature. She insisted on discipline, hard work and ambition, because she had a dream - the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Our thoughts are with Mia's family during this difficult time, we will miss her as an athlete, but above all as a person who will always be remembered."
Liatka has been training at the center of the team in Plabach-Schmidden since January 2023. Prior to that, she spent six years at the National Artistic Gymnastics Base in Berlin. Her family also lives there today.
In 2022, Mia Sophie became the German junior champion in the hoop exercise and the runner-up of the multi-fight champion. For these successes, she was voted Berlin's Young Athlete of the Month. In July 2023, she made the leap to the senior squad for the national team.
Absolutamente en shock por el repentino fallecimiento en el internado del equipo nacional alemán en Schmieden de la gimnasta Mia Sophie Lietke. Una gran promesa de 16 años que se nos va injustamente en plena juventud. Todo mi apoyo a su familia y compañeras.
Descanse en paz... pic.twitter.com/JBFLsO6gqx
— RSGVIDEOS (@RSGVIDEOS) November 20, 2023
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