Lisa Hörnblad is drawing a line at the age of 28. The Swedish ski ace felt let down after serious injuries.
Munich – Lisa Hörnblad's skiing career was marked by long periods of suffering. The speed specialist had to undergo surgery a total of seven times due to knee injuries. Now the Swede is drawing a line and ending her career at the age of 28. However, it wasn't just the injuries that played a role in her decision.
Hörnblad feels let down by the association
“I can’t carry on like I did last season. It's impossible to compete with the best athletes if you don't have support, a coach and a team. “Last season was bad and this is the only way to make me feel good,” Hörnblad wrote on Instagram on Tuesday, clearly taking a shot at the Swedish Ski Association.
Background: The 28-year-old is the only competitive speed specialist in the Swedish national team and therefore felt let down by the association. Hörnblad often only trained with the technical specialists or was on his own.
Knee problems also played a role in the end of his career
“I find it frustrating and unfair that for some there is a clear plan, while others like me get nothing,” she criticized in an interview with
svt.se
at the beginning of November 2023. “They constantly tried to keep my hopes up They are working on a solution, but none has been found.”
Now Hörnblad drew a line - but not just because the situation was unsatisfactory for them. “Of course my knee plays a role in this decision,” wrote Hörnblad on Instagram. As a result of one of her numerous operations, the Swede even experienced complications that almost led to her leg being amputated.
Hörnblad has to undergo emergency surgery after suffering blood poisoning
After being cleaned, Hörnblad developed blood poisoning in his knee - the joint had to be opened immediately to relieve the pressure. “The pain I had before they opened it for the first time is by far the worst I have experienced in my life,” the Swede said back in December 2022.
Hörnblad still fought his way back into the World Cup – thanks in part to special treatment. The Swede looks at the end of her career with both tears and laughter: “I didn't achieve my goals, but I'm proud that I never stopped fighting. My last four years have been marred by injuries and I have fought back every time. Ski racing cost me my health, but it gave me unforgettable memories and friends for life." Now it's time for a life without skiing... (
kk
)