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Marcel Hirscher returned to the Alpine Skiing World Cup this season because, somewhere, he felt that he was not finished with the discipline he was one of the greatest champions until he retired in 2019. no doubt that the Austrians were flying Holland. The banner of his working life did not intend to explore one of the most unpleasant aspects: the injury to the anterior cruci
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Interview with marcel hirscher: The Comeback in Alpine Skiing
Q: Welcome, Marcel! Your return too the Alpine Skiing World Cup has been one of the moast talked-about events this season. What inspired you to come back after retiring in 2019?
Marcel Hirscher: Thank you for having me! The decision to return was not easy,but I felt deep inside that I wasn’t finished with skiing yet. The thrill of competition and the passion for the sport have always been integral to my life. I wanted to challenge myself once again and see if I still have what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Q: your achievements in alpine skiing are legendary. Do you believe that your experience gives you an edge over younger competitors?
Marcel Hirscher: Absolutely. Experience plays a crucial role in skiing. While young athletes bring energy and fresh perspectives,having competed at the highest level allows me to better understand the mental and physical demands of the sport. I know how to handle pressure and make split-second decisions which can be pivotal on the slopes.
Q: You mentioned in the article that you also wanted to explore the psychological aspect of injuries, notably the anterior cruciate ligament injuries that you’ve faced. Can you elaborate on that?
Marcel Hirscher: Injuries are part and parcel of any sport, especially in high-intensity disciplines like skiing. The anterior cruciate ligament injury I experienced was a challenging time for me. It’s vital to address not just the physical recovery but also the mental aspects. I believe that providing more support and dialog around mental health in sports can help athletes come back stronger, both physically and mentally.
Q: The article hints at a strong Austrian spirit in skiing. How do you see the current state of Alpine skiing in austria compared to when you were at your peak?
Marcel Hirscher: Austria has a rich skiing tradition, and we continue to cultivate talented athletes. I believe that our strong foundation and support systems will keep the legacy alive. However, competition is worldwide now; athletes from other countries are also improving rapidly. it pushes us to maintain our high standards and adapt to changes in the sport.
Q: For aspiring young skiers, what practical advice would you give to navigate both their training and the mental challenges they might face?
Marcel Hirscher: Training is essential, but so is enjoying the journey. Embrace every moment on the slopes—each turn and every race is an opportunity to learn. Surround yourself with good coaches and be open to constructive criticism. Furthermore,do not shy away from discussing your feelings or any anxieties you might have. Mental strength is just as vital as physical training.
Q: Lastly, what do you hope to achieve in your comeback season?
Marcel hirscher: My main goal is to have fun and enjoy the competition again.Results are important, but I wont to inspire others to pursue their passion for skiing. If I can do that while performing well, that would be the perfect outcome.
Q: Thank you so much, Marcel, for sharing your insights with us today! We look forward to seeing you on the slopes.
Marcel Hirscher: thank you! I’m excited to be back and looking forward to what this season holds!