Norwegian Olympic champion and five-time World Championship gold medalist Maiken Caspersen Falla is ending her career.

Falla wrote on her Instagram account that after 12 years as a National Team member, she feels she has achieved all her goals.

Falla has had health issues in recent years, which has contributed to the decision.

“Over the last few seasons, I’ve had to put a lot into the game. Now I feel like it’s time to take care of my body,” wrote Falla.

Falla praises the sports community and the fact that she has realized her passion.

“It’s sad to say goodbye, but still, it feels good and right. It’s time to leave the cross-country skiing and move on. I am curious about life outside of top sports.”

Caspersen Falla won Olympic gold in the sprint at Sochi 2014. She won World Championship gold at Falun in 2015, Lahti in 2017, and Seefeld in 2019. Falla has 22 individual wins, 6 team wins, and 55 individual podiums in the cross-country skiing World Cup.