At just 24: Norwegian world champion Helene Marie Fossesholm retires

Norway has been hit by a surprise in its women’s cross-country team: world champion Helene Marie Fossesholm has ended her career at just 24.

In an Instagram post, Fossesholm wrote that her motivation had fluctuated sharply for months: “I have a somewhat sad message to share. I’ve decided to stop. In recent months my motivation has been up and down, and unfortunately most often the opposite of motivated.” Despite intensive preparations, the joy of competing didn’t return. “I always hoped this feeling was temporary and that my motivation would come back. I tried to focus on the positive—so much so that I acted as if my motivation was at its peak. Unfortunately, taking time hasn’t helped.”

Her decision was described as a shock in Norway. Cross-country legend Therese Johaug told NRK it was very surprising and a big decision to quit so close to the season start. Teammate Heidi Weng said she shed a few tears but supported Fossesholm doing what’s right for her. National team coach Sjur Ole Svarstad said he had goosebumps when he learned the news by text, calling it unexpected given how engaged she had been at summer events like Blinkfestivalen and Toppidrettsveka.

Fossesholm was regarded as one of Norway’s biggest talents. In 2021 she won the relay world title, claimed the Norwegian national title over 10 km freestyle, finished ninth in the World Cup distance standings, and earned two individual World Cup podiums. Looking ahead, she plans to study medicine: “It will be a different life, but one I’m looking forward to,” she wrote.