Therese Johaug's Bold Comeback: 'I'm Not Finished Yet'

Therese Johaug's Bold Comeback: 'I'm Not Finished Yet'

Originally published in Eurosport on August 07, 2024

At the age of 36, Therese Johaug is making a sensational return to competitive skiing, setting her sights on winning gold at the World Championships in Trondheim this upcoming winter. After initially retiring in 2022 to focus on starting a family, Johaug remained dedicated to training and recently took to Instagram to announce her exciting comeback, expressing her eagerness to don a race bib once again and leave her mark on the ski tracks.

In a heartfelt press conference held in Holmenkollen, Johaug reflected on the pain of her retirement two years ago, a decision driven by her aspirations of motherhood. However, after two years filled with reflection and rigorous training, she feels ready to reenter the competitive arena at the 2025 World Championships in Trondheim.

Hints about her return surfaced in recent months, and the Norwegian Ski Association has even reserved a spot for her on the national team. Johaug is set to rejoin the squad, entering the championships as a formidable competitor and reigniting her illustrious skiing career.

With an impressive resume that includes 14 World Championship titles, 80 World Cup victories, and an Olympic gold medal from Beijing 2022, Johaug is no stranger to success. Her journey has been marked by incredible highs, like her championship wins, and significant challenges, including a two-year doping suspension in 2016. Beyond her athletic prowess, Johaug is also a savvy entrepreneur, operating her own clothing line.

Among her competitors, Swedish skier Ebba Andersson noted that Johaug's comeback was anticipated, as the ski community had been buzzing with rumors about her intensive training sessions. With her reemergence into competitive skiing, Johaug is poised to further solidify her remarkable legacy in the sport.