Anna Weidel reveals that after some turbulent years, she thought about an early end to her career. But the hope for the Olympics ignites a fire in her once again.
Just at the beginning of this year, Anna Weidel won the gold medal at the Biathlon European Championships. Now, the German biathlete revealed at the Loop One Festival in Munich that after a difficult period in recent years, she considered an early retirement.
“I’ve had a relatively tough time in recent years with illnesses and quite a few setbacks. If the Olympics weren’t coming up now, I would have almost certainly already quit. That’s why I’ve put everything into it once again,” Weidel said in response to SPORT1 ‘s inquiry.
Anna Weidel thought about ending her career
In the past, Weidel struggled not only with health factors. In 2023, the biathlete disclosed that “nasty comments” and hostility surrounding the 2022 Olympic Games also affected her mental health.
In contrast, she feels ready for the 2026 Olympics – both physically and mentally.
“I feel like I’m on a good path right now, which the performance diagnostics have also shown. You have to see what the winter brings. Ski roller is always different; it’s hard to compare, but it’s a good guideline,” said Weidel, who was the only German to reach the final at the event in Munich.
However, the 29-year-old did not want to reveal whether her thoughts about ending her career depend on this season and the outcome of the Olympic Games.
“I haven’t thought about that yet. One year at a time, then see what else comes up, professionally, with my studies, or with my boyfriend, we’ll see,” Weidel left her future open.