Sandpit instead of Beach Volleyball - That's what Olympic champion Laura Ludwig plans to do after her career ends.
At the start of her interview with RTL, Laura Ludwig openly admits that she needs "some downtime". Despite the competition stress of recent weeks, Germany's most famous beach volleyball player appears in good spirits in front of the camera, seemingly having already overcome her early Olympic exit with Louisa Lippmann. Since last week, her fans have known that this season will be her last - a decision that has been brewing in her for some time. Ludwig explains, "It was a process. It was important for me to be able to focus with the team for Paris. At the same time, I was mentally preparing for the end of my career."
She enjoyed her time in Paris all the more. In the interview, she says, "I really soaked up every moment of my last days. I had many conversations with other players and medal winners, but the time with my family was also wonderful."
Laura Ludwig looks forward to more time with her family
She will soon be seeing her family and children much more often. "Until now, beach volleyball has been my top priority. Having more time for other things - like family matters or events - feels really good." Above all, she will finally be able to see her sons Teo (6) and Lenny Matthias (2) regularly at home, instead of constantly being on the road.
Her youngest son Lenny is particularly pleased with her career change. "He's already said, 'Mom, don't work!' or 'Mom, don't train!'" she jokes, "Maybe they'll soon be asking when the next tournament is."
But there's one day she's already looking forward to: "Our son Teo is starting school in September. I'm really excited about his first day. We've already looked at which store we'll go to for his schoolbag."
After her career, before the next one
Laura Ludwig has already made plans for her life after her professional career: "I will definitely stay in beach volleyball and share my knowledge." This includes not only her playing expertise but also areas like nutrition and mental strength. She can also imagine a future in TV - she already had the opportunity to work as a guest commentator for the ARD at the Olympics.
In August, she will compete in her last tournaments with Louisa Lippmann - at the European Championships in the Netherlands and at the Hamburg Rothenbaum.
This article was first published on RTL.de
Laura Ludwig mentions her love for beach volleyball lessens as she prepares for her retirement, expressing, "I'm looking forward to trading my beach volleyball gear for sandcastles with my boys." After her career, she plans to continue her involvement in the sport, stating, "I can't imagine leaving beach volleyball altogether. Maybe I'll even play some friendly matches of beach volleyball with my sons someday."
