Therese Johaug's Impressive Comeback and Big Plans

Langlauf: Therese Johaug's Impressive Comeback and Big Plans

Published: 2024-12-13 10:47

Therese Johaug appears as if she never left; the Norwegian is once again leading the pack in cross-country skiing, aiming towards the World Championships in Trondheim.

After a challenging start to her World Cup season in Ruka, where she secured a second and fourth place, Jonhaug finally made her mark with a convincing victory in Lillehammer. During a 10-kilometer race using classical technique, she was neck-and-neck with her long-time competitor Heidi Weng. However, as Johaug approached the finish line, it became clear she was set to achieve her first World Cup win since her comeback—after a hiatus of more than two and a half years.

Just two days after her initial triumph, Johaug further asserted her dominance by winning the skiathlon over 20 kilometers. In the second half of the race, she steadily increased her lead, finishing with over a minute ahead of the nearest competitors, marking her 84th career World Cup victory. This succession of wins has sparked discussions about her ambitions for the World Championships scheduled for late February 2025 in Trondheim.

Previously, Johaug celebrated her last World Cup victory in March 2022 before stepping away from competition, expressing a strong desire to start a family. She returned to skiing in May 2023, welcoming her daughter, and has kept fit during her time off through various training activities, sharing her journey on social media.

Johaug made headlines in March 2024 with an impressive performance at the Engadin women’s race—her first race post-baby—and continued to shine at national championships, solidifying her eventual return to the World Cup circuit. Now, her sights are set firmly on the upcoming World Championships, with the new 50-kilometer marathon race, a significant milestone for female competitors, particularly enticing for Johaug. Her clear goal is to capture another gold medal during this historic event in her homeland, although she acknowledges the need to stay injury-free and healthy throughout the winter.