Canadian ski jumping world champion, Alex Loutitt, is finding positives during her recovery from a serious knee injury. The 21-year-old, who made history by winning a world title in women’s large hill in 2023, tore her left knee’s anterior cruciate ligament during a September event in Italy.
As a result, Loutitt will not be participating in the upcoming Olympic Games in Milan and Cortina, Italy. She is currently undergoing rehabilitation at Red Bull’s Athlete Performance Center in Salzburg, Austria, with expectations of returning to competition in a year.
During a qualifying jump in Predazzo, Loutitt’s knee buckled due to a pre-existing weakness, leading to surgery in Innsbruck under specialist Dr. Christian Fink. Despite the setback, she is receiving support and treatment at the center, aiding her both physically and emotionally.
Loutitt’s recovery regimen includes water therapy, anti-gravity treadmills, hyperbaric chambers, and other specialized treatments. Her ADHD diagnosis is considered in her therapy sessions, ensuring they are effective and concise.
While acknowledging the disappointment of missing the Olympics, Loutitt remains optimistic about new opportunities and plans to support her team in Predazzo. She emphasizes the importance of being there for her boyfriend, Daniel Tschofenig, during the Games, highlighting the significance of personal connections amidst challenges.