Sad end to career in biathlon. © AFP / JEWEL SAMAD

The sad story behind this biathlon retirement

A few weeks ago, the Finnish biathlete Mari Eder said goodbye to the biathlon stage with a very honest and at the same time emotional statement. Now this end of his career also has a sad note.

11 May 2023

From: det

“Like every top athlete, I dreamed of a World Championship medal, but in the end I have to admit that my skills, my work performance or my talent were not enough for it. Although I ended up in 4th place at my best, I have to be honest and say that I was often way too far away”: With these astonishingly honest words, Mari Eder ended her biathlon career in March of this year.

Although it wasn't enough to win a World Cup medal, the Finn did have some successes. She won two World Cup races and landed on the podium again. She was also a popular figure in the World Cup who has now revealed a secret that gives the end of her career a sad note.

Heart problems bother her

Eder had already spoken of “health problems” in her farewell message on social media. Now she explained to Biathlonworld, that heart problems were troubling her. “Unfortunately I had some heart problems towards the end of the season and so the biggest challenge over the past month has been not being able to move or do any sport. Normally I enjoy periods without training, but it was an adjustment.”

Experienced biathlete: Mari Eder. © AFP / CHRISTOF STACHE

In fact, Eder missed some competitions at the end of the season. “Missing the races in the spring and slowly working off the training was a hard but very efficient way to give my life a new direction. I realized how much I missed my physical activity, so I had to completely change myself and develop new thoughts and ideas.”

Made up for the honeymoon

Mari Eder has already made good use of the slower pace in her life. She spent a romantic vacation in Mexico with her husband Benjamin. “It was actually a honeymoon! We got married five years ago but never had time for it. That’s why we’re now enjoying a few weeks in the sun.” And hopefully a carefree and happy life afterwards!