Therese Johaug was the world's best female cross-country skier when she decided to retire in 2022.
In May last year, she gave birth to her daughter Kristin Hoff Johaug.
After that, the competitive spirit returned.
Last winter, she skied both the Norwegian Championship and long-distance skiing. Therefore, it did not come as a major surprise when Johaug wrote on Instagram on Thursday:
"Both in the NM (Norwegian Championship) and in tests, it seems like I still have something to contribute to the ski track. The desire to have the start number on my chest is just as strong."
"Positive that Johaug is back"
In a subsequent press conference, Johaug stated that it is the home World Championship in Trondheim in February next year that has motivated her to make a comeback and also sent a greeting to the Swedish women:
I've seen that many have wished for me to make a comeback. At least those on the other side of the border, the Swedish girls. Hope I can motivate them a bit.
Within the Swedish women's national team, which is currently on a training camp in the World Championship terrain outside Trondheim, they are inspired by the Norwegian's return, even though it will become tougher on the World Cup.
Happiest about the comeback is Ebba Andersson, who sees new opportunities this winter. They are two cross-country skiers who like to have a high tempo, but have a weaker sprint.
Suddenly, there's another skier who's willing to take responsibility for the pace. It can mean that I sometimes get relief when it comes to setting the pace. Many times, it's other skiers you have with you who aren't as keen to set a good pace. Then it's positive that Johaug is back, says Ebba Andersson.
"It's a lifestyle"
Jonna Sundling is also happy about Johaug's return, but has no feeling about whether the Swedish skiers will be able to challenge Johaug this winter.
I hope we who have worked the last two years haven't become worse.
Linn Svahn is impressed by how big Johaug's comeback has become:
It's the big bomb in Swedish cross-country skiing this summer. It shows how big a home championship is – that you end a career and are willing to go back to a commitment where you know what it takes to have done it. It's not just a job. It's a lifestyle. She'll handle it well. She's so confident in herself.
Johaug has four Olympic gold medals, 14 World Championship gold medals, and 100 victories in the World Cup.
Age: 36.
Lives: Oslo.
Merits: OS: 4 gold, 1 silver, 1 bronze. VM: 14 gold, 2 silver, 3 bronze.
Family: Married to Nils Jakob Hoff (former Olympic rower). They have daughter Kristin.
