Fem van Empel, the 22-year-old cyclocross world champion, is taking a break from competition. The Team Visma | Lease a Bike rider says she’s lost the joy of cycling, citing a combination of factors that have led to her decision.
Imagine being on top of your game, with three world and European titles under your belt, and still feeling unfulfilled. That’s where Van Empel is right now. She’s decided to prioritize her mental health and well-being, putting her cycling career on hold. As she puts it, “I’m facing a series of challenges. After consulting with my team, we decided that taking a break from racing is the best option for my mental health and well-being. I’ll focus on my recovery with the goal of coming back stronger.”
Van Empel’s decision has been met with respect and admiration from her peers and fans. Demi Vollering, a fellow Dutch cyclist, praised her compatriot’s courage: “Very strong of her to take a step back. That will only make her stronger! These are the toughest decisions.” The Team Visma | Lease a Bike has also thrown its support behind Van Empel, saying, “As a team, we fully support Fem in giving her the time and space she needs. We’ll continue to accompany her in this process and wish her a speedy recovery.”
So, what led to Van Empel’s decision? While she hasn’t specified the exact reasons, it’s clear that the pressures of being a top athlete have taken a toll. The constant scrutiny from fans, media, and critics can be overwhelming, especially for a young athlete like Van Empel. As she reflected on her journey, “In recent years, I’ve been on an incredible journey, winning three world and European titles at the highest level in cyclocross. That required a lot of dedication and daily effort.” It’s a reminder that even the most successful athletes can struggle with the demands of their sport.
Key Takeaways
- Fem van Empel, the cyclocross world champion, is taking a break from competition due to a combination of factors.
- She’s prioritizing her mental health and well-being, with the goal of coming back stronger.
- Her decision has been met with respect and admiration from her peers and fans.
- The pressures of being a top athlete, including scrutiny from fans and critics, may have contributed to her decision.
In a sport where athletes are often expected to perform at their best, Van Empel’s decision is a reminder that mental health and well-being matter just as much as physical performance. As she takes a step back, her fans and teammates are rallying around her, supporting her decision and wishing her a speedy recovery.