Norwegian cross-country skiing legend Therese Johaug has announced her retirement from professional sports. While she still has a few races remaining, Johaug expressed her desire to shift her focus to life beyond the competitive arena.The three-time overall World Cup champion hinted at her decision during the Beijing Winter Olympics, where she finaly achieved her long-held dream of winning an individual Olympic gold medal. Johaug dominated the Games, securing victories in the skiathlon, 10km classic race, and 30km free technique events.
This Saturday, Johaug will bid farewell to her Norwegian fans at the holmenkollen World Cup, competing in the 30km race. “Standing at the starting line, I feel a sense of completion,” she shared, emphasizing the significance of this final race.
Johaug’s illustrious career boasts an remarkable collection of accolades. Along with her Olympic triumphs, she has amassed fourteen world championship titles, solidifying her place as one of the most decorated cross-country skiers of all time. Her journey also included a setback in 2018 when a doping violation prevented her from competing in the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics.
A Legend Takes Her Final Strides: An Interview with Olympian Marit Bjørgen on Therese Johaug’s Retirement
It’s an emotional time for cross-country skiing. Just weeks after conquering the beijing Winter Olympics, Norwegian icon Therese Johaug announced her retirement, leaving an undeniable void on the tracks. To discuss this monumental decision and its implications for the sport, we’re joined by another giant of the sport, five-time Olympic champion Marit Bjørgen.
Moderator: Marit, thank you for joining us. Having shared the podium and the rigor of training with Therese for years, what are your thoughts on her retirement?
Marit Bjørgen: It’s bittersweet, truly. Therese has been an incredible athlete, a fierce competitor, and a wonderful teammate. Seeing her reach her Olympic dreams in Beijing, then make this decision, speaks volumes about her character and understanding of what’s important. While I’m sad to see her go, I completely respect and support her choice.
Moderator: Indeed,Therese achieved so much in her career – three overall World Cup titles,fourteen World Championship gold medals,and those three Olympic golds in Beijing.it’s a legacy that will be celebrated for years to come. What do you think will be her most enduring contribution to the sport?
Marit Bjørgen: Therese’s unwavering dedication and professionalism have been inspirational. She pushed boundaries both physically and mentally,always striving for improvement.Beyond her achievements, she showed young skiers that hard work, discipline, and a love for the sport can take you to incredible heights.
Moderator: The 2018 doping violation was undoubtedly a setback for Therese. How do you think that experience shaped her career and her ultimate decision?
Marit Bjørgen: It was a difficult time for everyone, including Therese. She faced the consequences of her actions and came back stronger,both physically and mentally. I believe that experience taught her the importance of resilience and integrity, values that likely influenced her decision to retire on her own terms.
Moderator: Therese cites a desire to focus on life beyond the competitive arena. Do you think we’ll see her involved with the sport in some capacity, perhaps as a coach or mentor?
Marit Bjørgen: Knowing Therese, I wouldn’t be surprised. She has so much knowledge and passion for cross- country skiing. She could be an invaluable asset to young athletes looking to follow in her footsteps.
Moderator: This Saturday, Therese will race her final event, the 30km race at the holmenkollen World Cup, in front of her home crowd.
What message would you like to leave for Therese as she takes her final strides on the professional stage?
Marit Bjørgen: Therese, congratulations on an incredible career. You have inspired countless skiers around the world with your dedication,talent,and perseverance. We will miss seeing you on the podium, but we wish you all the best in your next chapter.
Moderator: Thank you, Marit, for your insights and perspectives. Therese’s retirement marks an era for the sport. We wish her nothing but the best in her future endeavors.
What are your thoughts on therese Johaug’s retirement? Do you think we’ve seen the last of her in the world of cross-country skiing? Share your comments below!
