Severin Freund suffers from long-term effects. © APA/afp / JURE MAKOVEC

Under the knife again: The long-term effects of competitive sport

Former World Cup winner and exceptional athlete Severin Freund posted a picture of the aftermath of his success.

July 15, 2024

From: sn

Like former ski racer Lindsey Vonn, Freund has also suffered from the long-term effects of injuries from his active time. On Instagram, the 36-year-old presents himself with a cast and crutches after another operation. He calls it "an investment in the future."

Severin Freund was one of Germany's most outstanding ski jumpers and experienced many highs in his career. However, his sporting successes were repeatedly overshadowed by serious injuries: Freund's first significant injury occurred after the 2015/2016 season, shortly after hip surgery, when Freund tore his cruciate ligament for the first time. Freund then took a long forced break, but tore his cruciate ligament again in the same year.

Severin Freund was world class for many years. © APA / EXPA/ JFK

After a long period of rehabilitation and a tough fight back into the sport, Freund had to undergo another knee operation in February 2019. The operation also prevented him from taking part in the Nordic World Ski Championships. Back problems required another break and delayed his return to the competition circuit. Another knee operation was necessary at the end of November 2019.

His life after sport

Freund, who ended his active career two years ago, has since undergone an impressive transformation. He moved from life as a competitive athlete to a quieter life as a TV expert and, above all, as a family man. In an interview with Welt, he reported how his life has changed since leaving sport. "I not only have a lot more time, but also a lot more space, because the focus that you have as a competitive athlete is gone," said Freund. He enjoys his time with his family to the fullest and considers it a great luxury to be able to look after his two children intensively.

Freund's journey is an example of the challenges and adjustments that top athletes have to go through after the end of their active careers. Despite all the injuries and operations, he remains optimistic and looks forward.