In the world of sport, success and setbacks walk hand in hand, often leaving athletes facing unexpected challenges. For Sandra Schützová, the 2024 Birkebeiner marked not just the end of the season but the beginning of a difficult recovery back to the training.

A seemingly harmless fall left her with a torn ACL, putting her season on hold. Despite the setback, her determination stayed strong.

Reflecting on the toll her injury exacted, Schützová reveals the extent of her struggle. “It was very challenging for me,” she admits. “The season did not go according to my expectations… I felt physically well prepared and very excited about the season. But unfortunately, I could not sell it.”

Read more: Sandra Schützová: setting high goals for Ski Classics Season XV

But misfortune of injury, as she soon discovered, allowed a unique opportunity for her. While sidelined from the pro tour, Schützová tried her hand at a new role, a commentator for Czech TV. “It was a huge opportunity for me,” she acknowledges, “I enjoyed it a lot, but still, I would prefer to stand at the start.” She continues, “I would also devote myself to it in the future, if I would be given the chance.”

From the agony of post-surgery pain to rehabilitation

Schützová’s determination to be back in full health has been evident on social media. “It was very painful for two weeks,” she recalls, “After a week, I already started to commute to the physiotherapist… working on making sure I did not have any more health problems.”

“Rehabilitation is going well,” she affirms, “I am planning to add more exercises soon.” With each milestone ticked off, she edges closer to the ultimate goal—returning to the full training with renewed enthusiasm and strength for the upcoming training season. 

In the meantime, Sandra acknowledges “Right now, I’m doing group DNS exercises and some stuff from the Feldenkrais method. Thinking of adding in some Ercolina and hitting the exercise bike soon.”

“The only plan I have now is to focus on rehabilitation…so that I can come back even stronger.” As Sandra would know there is no shortcut to recovery, but we hope to see her back full training as soon as possible.

Unfortunate events

While at opposite ends of the season the Vltava Fund Ski Team had both of their top women sidelined due to injury in this past season. Bångman suffered an ankle fracture earlier in the season.

Read more here: Bångman after injury: “Much quicker than I thought”