Bad news for skier Marcel Hirscher!
As it became known on Tuesday, the 35-year-old man tore the cruciate ligament in his left knee during giant slalom training on the Reiteralm on Monday.
He had a successful operation in Graz on Monday afternoon. In addition to the cruciate ligament, the external capsular apparatus also suffered damage, but otherwise ther are no other injuries. He managed the injury without falling.
Hirscher already had doubts that his comeback season would be over: “cruciate ligament gone, project over,” he reportedly said, according to Van Dee’s announcement.
Final end of a career?
Hirscher is quoted in the broadcast: “For the first time ever I have to go through the painful experience of a cruciate ligament tear, which so many have already gone through. What remains is that these eight months have been tough and that I was I would like to thank everyone who joined this incredible journey and made it a success.”
It is indeed uncertain what will happen next with his return project. Of course, the initial focus is on recovery. In another passage in the statement,the Salzburg native even expects his career to end permanently.
It was only at the start of the season in Sölden that the eight-time overall World Cup winner returned to the ski circuit under the Dutch flag and he also scored points in 23rd place. Hirscher, who won the ball slalom six times, also took part in the two slaloms in Levi and Gurgl.Though, it was not enough for the second round.
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What are the common rehabilitation steps for athletes recovering from a torn cruciate ligament?
Interview with Dr. Lukas Berger, Sports medicine Specialist
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Berger. We’ve just received news that renowned skier Marcel Hirscher suffered a torn cruciate ligament during training. How important is this type of injury for an athlete, especially someone of his caliber?
Dr. Lukas Berger: Thank you for having me. A cruciate ligament tear is one of the most serious injuries a skier can endure. It not only affects the knee’s stability but also requires extensive rehabilitation. For elite athletes like Hirscher, it can be especially challenging, both physically and mentally.Given his age and the peak of his career, this injury poses significant implications for his competitive future.
Time.news Editor: Hirscher has undergone surgery and mentioned that he was able to manage the injury without falling. Is this a common scenario for such injuries?
Dr. Lukas Berger: Surprisingly,yes. Many athletes can tear their cruciate ligaments without a dramatic fall or collision. Sometimes, it can happen during high-speed maneuvers or abrupt changes in direction, which are commonplace in skiing. It highlights the unpredictable nature of this sport and the inherent risks associated.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned rehabilitation; what does that process look like for an athlete like Hirscher?
Dr. Lukas Berger: Rehabilitation typically involves a combination of rest, physical therapy, and gradual reintroduction of sport-specific activities. The initial focus is on regaining range of motion and reducing swelling. Then, strength training becomes crucial to support the knee. For a high-level athlete, this process can take anywhere from six to twelve months.
Time.news Editor: Marcel has expressed concerns about this potentially being the end of his career. What psychological impacts do you think he might face during recovery?
Dr. Lukas berger: The psychological effects can be profound. Athletes often struggle with identity issues, loss of confidence, and fear of reinjury. The longer the recovery, the more thes concerns can amplify. It’s essential for athletes to have a strong support system, including mental health professionals, to help navigate these emotional hurdles.
Time.news Editor: He recently made a comeback and even scored points in his first races, but injury concerns linger. From an industry perspective, what does this say about athlete longevity in competitive sports?
Dr.Lukas Berger: Hirscher’s situation underscores a growing concern in sports about athlete longevity in the face of increasing demands on performance. As athletic standards rise, the physical toll also escalates. Many athletes now pursue comprehensive training programs that address injury prevention and recovery. This incident serves as a reminder that while physical prowess is critical, safeguarding an athlete’s health is equally vital for long-term success.
Time.news Editor: what practical advice woudl you give to amateur athletes looking to prevent similar injuries?
Dr. Lukas Berger: First and foremost, it’s crucial to prioritize proper technique and body mechanics during training. Warming up properly before sessions and incorporating strength and conditioning work can considerably reduce injury risk. Additionally, listening to your body and recognizing when to take a break is vital. Lastly, engaging with a coach or a trainer to identify and address any potential physical weaknesses can go a long way in injury prevention.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Berger, for your insights.This situation certainly sheds light on the challenges professional athletes face and the importance of recovery.
Dr. Lukas Berger: My pleasure. I hope Marcel Hirscher has a smooth recovery and, whether he returns to competition or not, he can find fulfillment in whatever comes next.
