Feb 22 • 11:46 UTC 🇩🇪 Germany FAZ

Weakness of the Germans: Athletes Left Alone

The article discusses the struggles of German athletes at the Winter Olympics, emphasizing their isolation and lack of support from sports federations.

The article highlights the disappointing performance of the German Olympic team at the Winter Games in Italy, particularly the decrease in medal counts compared to previous Olympics. It points out that the root of the problem may lie within the national sports federations, which are criticized for their unprofessional handling of athletes' needs. The author illustrates this point through the experience of speed skater Fridtjof Petzold, who recounts feeling unsupported and stressed leading up to the games.

Petzold describes a challenging atmosphere where he had to advocate for himself to receive necessary attention from the Berlin head coach, Alexis Contin. This scenario reflects a broader issue within the German sports structure, where athletes appear to be navigating their careers with insufficient guidance and support, causing undue mental strain. The piece suggests that disorganization and a lack of proactive engagement from the federations exacerbate the pressures faced by these competitors.

Ultimately, the article raises significant concerns about the effectiveness of German sports administration and how it directly impacts athletes' performances on the international stage. As medal counts decline, it poses important questions about the future of sports in Germany and calls for urgent reform in how athletes are treated and supported.

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