Helene Marie Fossesholm Steps Back from Competitive Skiing

Helene Marie Fossesholm Steps Back from Competitive Skiing

Norwegian ski sensation Helene Marie Fossesholm has announced her decision to step back from competition. The 22-year-old athlete took to Instagram to share that she will not compete until next year, expressing, "This autumn has dimmed my joy. I have not felt like myself, either physically or mentally."

As the ski season begins in Norway with events in Beitostølen, it's been confirmed that Fossesholm will not be making an appearance. She stressed in her message how crucial joy is in sports, stating, "I have had to take a step back because the joy of sports and competition has always been the most important for me."

Fossesholm's rise to fame came during the 2020/21 season when she led the Norwegian team to a stunning World Championship gold in the relay, toppling the Swedish favorites. However, since that remarkable achievement, her performance has not unfolded as expected. Last season saw her facing significant challenges in World Cup events, culminating in her absence from any races at the World Championships.

In reflection on her experiences, she shared, "I’ve been pushing myself in recent years, even when I wasn’t really ready. I don’t expect to ski much before Christmas, but I hope to be ready after New Year."

Ending her message with optimism, Fossesholm remarked, "There is light at the end of the tunnel, it’s just a bit far away, but I will not give up. In the meantime, I will enjoy skiing because the joy of skiing is, after all, the most important thing."

SVT will be broadcasting the Swedish premiere in cross-country skiing – be sure to catch the Winter Studio starting this Friday.