Frida Karlsson on Johaug's Return: 'We've Always Pursued Her'

Frida Karlsson on Johaug's Return: 'We've Always Pursued Her'

Swedish cross-country star Frida Karlsson is eager to see the form in which Therese Johaug, the four-time Olympic champion, will make her comeback to the World Cup this winter.

Johaug is set to return to competition, aiming to once again compete against the world’s elite female skiers. With the 2025 World Championships in Trondheim on the horizon, Karlsson acknowledges Johaug as her primary rival.

Reflecting on her past encounters, Karlsson recalls the 2021–22 season when she strategized on how to surpass Johaug during training. Success came during the Ruka World Cup and then again at the Lillehammer events.

"Victories have always motivated me more than just standing on the podium. That's why I was focused on beating Johaug," Karlsson reminisces as she prepares for the upcoming season in Italy’s Val di Fiemme.

However, Johaug, who celebrated three Olympic victories at the 2022 Winter Games in Beijing, took a break from competition until the end of March. Now at age 36, she is returning after maternity leave, with her current form to be tested at the Ruka World Cup on November 29.

Career Aspirations Focusing on Falun

"Therese is truly welcome back to the circuit, as she has set the standard for us for so many years. We've always chased her," Karlsson shares.

But Karlsson remains curious: “What condition will she be in?”

Currently, Karlsson's only championship win is a relay gold medal from the 2019 Seefeld Championships. This season, her aspirations are firmly set on the Trondheim World Championships, with the following winter leading to the Olympic Games in Val di Fiemme. It seems she plans to conclude her career at the 2027 World Cup in Falun.

"That’s my plan," she says regarding her intention to retire at 27. "I don’t want to be trapped in this hamster wheel forever. I want to make the most of these years and turn them into gold."

Although her announcement has garnered attention, for Karlsson, it's a source of personal motivation.

"I want to set a finish line for myself. Of course, I could always decide to continue later if I feel like it," she explains.

In addition to her world championship gold, Karlsson has secured five silver medals, four bronze medals, and a relay bronze at the Beijing Olympics.