German Biathlon Star Shows Baby Bump!

German Biathlon Star Shows Baby Bump

German biathlete Janina Hettich-Walz is currently preparing for motherhood. She plans to return to competitive biathlon after her pregnancy. She recently shared an image showing her baby bump, commenting ‘Halbzeit’ (Halfway). Hettich-Walz is a silver medalist from the 2021 World Championships in Nove Mesto.

The Biathlon World Cup is set to start its new season at the end of November, with the opening event in Kontiolahti, Finland on November 30. However, Hettich-Walz's priority is her pregnancy, as she announced her determination to continue her career after the birth.

"As long as I am feeling well, I want to keep training and stay fit for as long as possible. My goal is to be part of the team for the 2025/26 season and participate in the Olympic Games in Milan," she stated.

Taking a Leading Role

Hettich-Walz expresses her desire to show other athletes that it is possible to balance family life and professional sports. In an interview, she said, "I want to take on a pioneering role to demonstrate that family and elite biathlon can coexist for women."

She explained her initial plans to rebuild her fitness between March and May after the birth, with hopes to return to regular training with her team by June.

Support from the German Ski Federation

After announcing her pregnancy, Hettich-Walz received overwhelming support from her team and the German Ski Federation. She described her emotional reaction, stating she was touched by how everyone celebrated her news. Felix Bitterling, Sports Director for Biathlon, affirmed the federation’s commitment to support her return in preparation for the Olympic season in 2025/26.