Renowned Cyclist Forced to Call It Quits on His Career After Health Complications

The prominent member of Team Jumbo-Visma has been compelled to announce abrupt retirement from his professional cycling career. Nathan van Hoydonck has declared his unfortunate parting from the sport that has left his fans and the cycling world disheartened.?

The decision has been made based on his underlying medical condition which makes it risky for him to perform cycling daily. Although fans did receive a moment of respite on Nathan surviving a serious car accident, a few days earlier this sudden decision has left them in shock.

A lucky narrow escape leads to an uncertain future

On September 12, Hooydonck met with a deadly accident when he lost control in Kalmthout, at a crossroad in northern Belgium. It was later found out that while driving the cyclist felt unwell at the wheel and before coming to a stop, he hit five other vehicles.?

The car crash was a frightening ordeal because of the presence of Hooydonck?s pregnant wife. However, she escaped the tragic incident without any injury. But Hooydonck had to be rushed to the hospital immediately since he was in a life-threatening condition. Post medical examination he has been diagnosed with a cardiac condition known as arrhythmia.???

In this condition heart muscle anomaly occurs for which an internal defibrillator (ICD) has been placed in his heart. Hence, Hooydonck has been advised to take a permanent break from cycling. Although he considers himself to be extremely lucky, he reported to Global Cycling Network, ? Things may have gone differently if I hadn?t gotten good help so quickly. I?m fine now, but I still have to deal with the fact that this marks the end of my professional career.?

A promising career shortened at the cost of health

Nathan van Hooydonck is compelled to take retirement at a prime moment in his career when he had to accomplish so many victories being part of Team Jumbo-Visma. Securing second place at Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne, this year?s spring Classics witnessed him as a formidable player. Hooydonck?s professional journey also included riding for CCC, Bissell Development Team, and BMC since 2014.???

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In his short yet significant career, Hooydonck has received immense support from his teammates. Keeping professional rivalry aside, his close mate and the renowned cyclist, Jonas Vingegaard dedicated his victory to Hooydonck on stage 16 of the Vuelta a Espana?a. On the other hand, Dylan van Barle paid his tribute to his teammate on the final leap of the race.?

Besides the immense support he has received in this difficult period, the prospect of impending parenthood serves as a beacon of hope for Hooydonck.?

Hooydonck?s untimely retirement sets a reminder that fragility and unpredictability play an indispensable part in the career of any athlete. However, his strict decision to prioritize health and family is a testament to his resilience in difficult times. With the heartwarming love and support from his fellow teammates and fans, Hooydonck embarks on a new journey in life.

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