Rosie Brennan, a former elite skier from the United States, is experiencing significant health challenges, including the potential diagnosis of post-viral syndrome, also known as chronic fatigue syndrome. This debilitating condition has impacted her performance in the current ski season, with her best finish being 15th in the traditional sprint at Ruka, while her rankings have fallen to worse than 30 since December. The toll this illness has taken on her both physically and cognitively cannot be understated, leading her to struggle with fatigue, muscle and joint pain, as well as cognitive issues such as difficulty concentrating.

Brennan has also recently disclosed issues with circulation, which have added to her challenges as an athlete. She mentioned that during skiing, blood does not flow properly to her leg, making her traditional skiing style unfeasible. As she deals with these ongoing health problems, she has decided to shift her focus exclusively to traditional skiing, which may better suit her current physical condition. This change marks a significant adjustment in her competitive strategy and training approach as she navigates her health.

The implications of Brennan's struggles extend beyond her personal experience, highlighting the challenges that athletes face when dealing with health issues that are often invisible to the public. It raises awareness about the physical and psychological toll that sports can take on athletes and stresses the importance of proper health and medical support for professional skiers. Brennan's revelation serves as a reminder of the necessity for comprehensive health care in sports, especially concerning conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome and other serious health concerns.