Therese Johaug Sets Sights on World Championships Return

Therese Johaug, a 14-time world champion, is making a highly anticipated comeback to the competitive stage, with her sights firmly set on the World Championships in Trondheim, Norway, next season. She shared this exciting news via her Instagram account.

NRK's cross-country skiing expert, Torgeir Björn, remarked, "The World Championships suddenly have a new favorite."

Cathrine Inestebö, chief of Norway's cross-country skiing, expressed her enthusiasm: "It's fantastic news that Johaug wants to return and even join the national team. This is a great day for Norwegian skiing and for the sport globally."

After concluding her elite career in spring 2022, following the Beijing Olympics, Johaug embraced motherhood in May of the same year. Last season marked her return to competitive skiing after a long hiatus, showcasing her impressive skills in various events, including the 30-kilometer race at the Norwegian national championship and a 17-kilometer freestyle race in Engadin, Switzerland. Her re-entry into competition was nothing short of triumphant.

Throughout the last season, speculation swirled regarding Johaug's potential participation in the upcoming Norwegian World Championships, especially since this edition will feature women's competition in the 50-kilometer race for the first time. Though she hadn't committed at that time, she did express enthusiasm for the possibility.

In her own words, Johaug remarked, "In 2022, I put my skis away because I wanted to start a family. I've continued training because it brings me joy. It seems I still have something to give on the track, and my desire to compete remains strong."

"I've decided to rejoin the Norwegian Ski Association's strength program and pursue my World Championship dream at the home championships. I'm eager to see what I can achieve," she added.

Team skier Tiril Udnes Weng shared her excitement about Johaug's return, stating, "When Therese is on the team, we have a strong skier and a great teammate with extensive experience from World Championships on home soil."

Johaug has previously secured gold in both the 30-kilometer freestyle race and the relay at the 2011 Oslo World Championships. The Norwegian Ski Association has been in regular contact with Johaug since the national championships, keeping an open position for her on the national team since April. Her final decision hinged on her fitness and her ability to manage extended separations from home.

"Fortunately, kindergarten starts on Monday. I’ll get more rest and recovery time when my child is there. My husband supports me in everything. Everyone is ready to roll up their sleeves," Johaug declared at a press conference earlier today.