Marketa Davidova got off to a flying start in the 2024/2025 season. She won the sprint at the first World Cup in Kontiolahti. However, she had to take a break before Christmas to recover from a back injury. Unfortunately this did not work out as hoped, so she underwent surgery in March. Just five months later, she is back on the starting line.

Biathlonworld: Marketa, why did you decide to end last season early?

Marketa Davidova: I had no other choice because I had a slipped disc. My plan was to treat the injury conservatively with physical therapy and special exercises, but it didn't work. When there was still no improvement in March, I decided to have surgery.

BW: How did it feel to end the season early?

MD: It wasn't an easy decision for me. As an athlete, you want to race, be able to move without pain, and compete for rankings. I had hoped that the break in December and January would allow me to still achieve my goals of competing in the World Championships in Lenzerheide and the home World Cup in Nove Mesto na Morave, but I had to accept that I now need to take care of my body to get completely healthy again.

BW: How long did you have to take a break from training after the operation?

MD: I was in the hospital for a week and then had to stay in bed at home for a few weeks, taking it easy and only starting with light exercise. At first, I couldn't even sit for long periods of time. I then slowly fought my way back to a normal training schedule. Now I can do all the exercises at the gym, but I'm not back to 100 percent when it comes to running and roller skiing. It's not perfect yet, but I'm happy with how my recovery has gone.

BW: How did this injury affect your mental health?

MD: It was a difficult time for me; I have to be honest. I was very sad. At first, I thought I would be back quickly, but that didn't happen. I had to learn to accept that. I couldn't even watch biathlon races on TV during that time. But my family, my friends, and my horse helped me not to give up.

BW: Other athletes were also ill, such as Lisa Vittozzi and Vanessa Voigt. Did you talk to them as well?

MD: It helps to know that you're not alone. Supporting each other is very valuable. I wrote messages with Lisa.

BW: You were back at the starting line five months after your operation at the City Biathlon in Dresden. How proud are you of that?

MD: It's an important step in the right direction. I'm very happy that I was able to be there in Dresden. It was my first race with the rifle on my back since my operation. I still have problems with my back sometimes, but it's not as bad as it was before my operation.

BW: What are your goals for the upcoming season?

MD: I want to compete in races, and I want to see myself continue to improve. Then I can be satisfied and know that I did everything I could.

Photos: IBU I Archive