Mauritius and Mykonos: Recovered Wellinger shares out
Before heading back to wintry Oberstdorf, Garmisch or Scandinavia, Andreas Wellinger first had completely different goals. In the spring, he enjoyed the sun in Mauritius, and in the fall, a short summer extension on the Greek island of Mykonos. With tanned skin and great composure, the Olympic ski jumping champion turns his attention to the sport and the reporters shortly before the start of the season, whose "concentrated power" tells him that winter is just around the corner.
Wellinger's ordeal has been long, with setbacks and injuries shaping his eventful career since his gold triumph in Pyeongchang 2018. However, the 28-year-old Bavarian seems to have shaken all that off in the meantime. Two World Championship medals last winter in Planica, Slovenia, were evidence of a great sporting comeback. And Wellinger has also regained the cheeky and light-hearted manner that characterized him in his younger years.
Wellinger now one of the established athletes
When asked about youngster Philipp Raimund and his prospects, Wellinger says casually: "Are you saying I'm an old fart?" It's always good when the youngsters create pressure. That's how it was for him back then. "The more they come along, the more meticulous the old farts become. That's the only way we can win together," says Wellinger, who is one of the favorites at the World Cup opener in Ruka, Finland, next weekend, describing the situation.
Wellinger is no longer the young and wild one. He is now one of the established players, a kind of team captain with a wealth of experience. "He is jumping at a much higher level than last year. I strongly assume that Andi will be able to have a clear say this year," says national coach Stefan Horngacher. The Austrian is already entering his fifth season as head coach at the German Ski Association (DSV). Alongside Wellinger, the main hopefuls this winter are Karl Geiger, who has been very consistent for years, and the talented Raimund.
Wellinger addresses shortcomings
Wellinger has changed his life as a professional athlete from time to time over the years. He moved to Munich, then went back to the countryside, sometimes more and sometimes less as a hobby surfer. In ski jumping, on the other hand, he kept going - with the exception of injury breaks - despite many setbacks. However, Wellinger is no longer just a simple athlete, but also a kind of loudspeaker. He openly denounces what he doesn't like.
Regarding a possible helmet design without sponsors, Wellinger says: "I think it's absolutely stupid. I think it will ruin winter sports in the long term." And this after he had previously dithered about how he could best respond diplomatically. The diplomacy was then less important than the clear criticism. No more team jumping at the Olympics? "What a damn shame." Overall, the Ruhpoldingen native considers the political power games surrounding the Fis World Federation to be "somewhat questionable".
Wellinger is annoyed that many decisions are made "way above our heads". But the athletes seem to have resigned themselves to these issues. "We are the ones who have to bear the brunt of it or are allowed to represent it," said the ski jumper. Good or bad, it "doesn't matter".
Andreas Wellinger, having enjoyed a relaxing break in Mauritius and Mykonos, is now focused on the upcoming World Cup season in winter sports. His strong performance, evidenced by two World Championship medals last winter, positions him as a favorite for the World Cup opener in Ruka, Finland.
Andreas Wellinger's career, marked by injuries and setbacks since his gold triumph in Pyeongchang 2018, has seen him excel in ski jumping's biggest events. His recent successes have earned him a place among the established athletes, even serving as a kind of team captain with his wealth of experience.
Source: www.dpa.com
