?Congratulations on a Great Career?: Katie Ledecky Joins Sports World As 28-Year-Old Swimming Star Says Goodbye to the Sport Due to Health Issues

The 28-year-old German swimmer Sarah Wellbrock stunned the athletic world with her retirement news on Wednesday. The 2019 world champion shared a heartfelt note about her 18-year-long swimming career. On learning about Wellbrock?s decision, legendary swimmer Katie Ledecky also joined the sports world in showing support for the talented swimmer.

Yesterday, Sarah Wellbrock shared her retirement post on her Instagram. The athlete has decided to bid goodbye to the sports months before the much-awaited 2024 Paris Olympics. Although her decision came as a shocker for the world, many wished the best for the swimmer in her near future.

Why is Sarah Wellbrock retiring from swimming?

In her Instagram post, Wellbrock expressed that swimming has been a big part of her life for the last 18 years. However, she added that her body was not keeping well for a long time. In a span of two years, after the 2021 Olympics, Wellbrock realized that her body can not resist the strain that occurs due to relentless training.

Further, the 2021 Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist stated that she gave everything she had during her last Olympics participation. Wellbrock expressed that she was indebted to the reward she received that year. However, now for her own good, she has to draw a line and bid a goodbye to the sport. Thanking her mentors and especially her father, she expressed that it was not an easy decision to conclude. The swimmer included in her post saying, “I will miss all of this so much! On that note – thank you.”

Wellbrock?s last Olympics participation was in Tokyo in the 1,500-meter freestyle category. In that championship, the 28-year-old achieved the third position, with Katie Ledecky as the first and Erica Sullivan as the second position holder.

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As Wellbrock has now ended her glorious swimming career, many renowned athletes including, Katie Ledecky came to her comment section to show their solidarity and support.

The sports world pours its heart on Sarah Wellbrock

Expressing immense love and support to her fellow competitor, Katie Ledecky wrote, ?Congratulations on a great career!? Best of luck in your next chapter.?

Long-distance runner Philipp Pflieger celebrated the new start of Wellbrock?s life, ?I can empathize with your decision only too well after taking this step earlier this year. In a way, you leave one life behind and start a new one.?

Moreover, fellow British swimmer Jazz Carlin looked back at the memories she made with Sarah. She expressed in the comments, ?So proud of you! What an amazing career you?ve had, so lucky to have shared so many memories together! It?s just the beginning!!”

Another German swimmer, named Jan-Philip Glania joined the comments. He added, ? Great career with an Olympic medal! Hammer! You can say goodbye without a guilty conscience All the best for the rest of your life! We keep in touch!? He too wished Sarah luck for her life ahead.

Lastly, the official page of World Athletics, also wrote for the swimmer, ?Congratulations for an amazing career ?

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Throughout her career, Sarah Wellbrock expressed her love for swimming through her performances. However, as health stands above everything, the swimmer took the right decision for her future.