Johaug Rival Withdraws from Tour de Ski

Johaug Rival Withdraws from Tour de Ski

Katharina Hennig, the German cross-country skiing star, has decided to withdraw from the Tour de Ski. She stated that her health condition is not good enough for her to compete. Hennig shared this news on her Instagram account.

In her post, she expressed, "Now there are good and bad news from my side: The bad news first. Unfortunately, I will not be able to start in the Tour de Ski due to my health not being at a level that allows it." She continued, "While this was a difficult decision, the good news is: I am giving my body the time it needs to heal, and I will still have enough time to prepare well for the World Championships in Norway."

The World Championships will take place in Granåsen from February 26 to March 9. Hennig did not elaborate on whether her withdrawal was due to illness or other reasons. Last season, she finished 11th overall in the Tour de Ski, with her best finish being fifth in the 2022-23 season. Currently, she ranks seventh in the overall World Cup standings this season.

Hennig had a challenging preparation phase for this season due to both health and mental challenges, as reported by the news agency DPA. The Tour de Ski is set to begin on December 28 in Toblach, Italy.