UPDATE: Just confirmed, Italian ski star Federica Brignone is facing an uncertain future as she recovers from severe leg injuries. With less than four months until the Milan-Cortina Games, Brignone’s return to competitive skiing remains unclear following her devastating crash during the Italian championships in April.
Brignone, the reigning World Cup champion, suffered multiple fractures in her left leg and tore her ACL, putting her Olympic aspirations in jeopardy. “I don’t think I’ll be able to get back to exactly how I was before,” Brignone stated during a recent media day, revealing her struggles with the rehabilitation process.
The 35-year-old skier has dedicated approximately seven hours a day to her recovery but admits she is still unable to navigate stairs “like a normal person.” She expressed her frustration, stating, “I don’t know when I’ll be back on the slopes, certainly not November.” The uncertainty is palpable as she acknowledges, “Honestly, until I put my skis back on, I don’t know if I’ll be able to ski at the Olympics.”
Brignone was anticipated to be a key figure for Italy during the games, but now she faces the reality that she may be sidelined. “If one of my teammates deserves the place more than me, they deserve it more than me,” she remarked, highlighting the strength of the Italian team. Despite the daunting challenges ahead, she remains optimistic: “Obviously I’m confident, otherwise I wouldn’t be doing everything that I’m doing.”
As she continues her rigorous rehabilitation, Brignone is focused on her health rather than the pressure of the upcoming Olympics. “It’s not these Olympics that will change my life, change my career,” she reflected. “I’ve achieved much more than I could have ever dreamed of.” Yet, she cannot deny the allure of competing at home, stating, “It would be a beautiful dream.”
The Italian winter sports federation is closely monitoring her recovery, as fans and fellow athletes alike remain hopeful for her return. As the February games approach, all eyes will be on Brignone and her progress. Will she make a triumphant comeback or be forced to watch from the sidelines? Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
