German athlete Alica Schmidt has announced she is taking a break from the sport.
The 400m runner qualified for the 2020 Olympics but was unable to secure a spot in either of the women’s or mixed 4x400m relay events.
The 22-year-old ran personal bests in the lead-up to the Tokyo Games, but after watching the prestigious event from the sidelines, she is now taking a step back to reevaluate her future.
She took to Instagram and posted a series of training videos from this year. “Not gonna lie, I’m not satisfied with my races this year,” she wrote:
I’ve worked harder than ever before day in day out pushed my limits in every workout and made so many sacrifices. It was not an easy year with my Covid infection and torn ligaments but nevertheless, I know what I am capable of and I’m hungry for more. Now, I’m going to take a break and I’m looking forward to coming back feeling fresh and ready to train hard again.
During the Games Schmidt wrote on Instagram:
I’m so grateful for all of the love and support that I have been receiving on this journey. I couldn’t be more thankful for all the experiences I have already made during my time in Tokyo. I’ve been able to learn so many things and can’t wait where my athletic career will take me in the upcoming years. I can’t thank every single one of you enough for your incredible support.
The 22-year-old impressed in the junior ranks, and she claimed silver at the 2017 European Athletics Under-20 Championship in the 4x400m relay according to Daily Star.
Schmidt has gained popularity on social media for her appearance but said she doesn’t understand why she was awarded the title of ‘Sexiest Athlete in the World’ by Australian magazine Busted Coverage.
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