“I Was Incredibly Lucky” – Belgian Cyclist Nathan Van Hooydonck After Being Forced Into Sudden Career Exit Post-Near-Death Crash

The adrenaline-fueled world of professional cycling is often defined by the triumphs and trials of the athletes’ careers. But for Belgian cyclist Nathan Van Hooydonck, an unforeseen and heart-stopping incident altered the course of his life. On a seemingly ordinary day, Van’s career took a shocking turn when the 27-year-old cyclist lost control of his ride, due to a heart muscle anomaly. His sudden encounter with the unprecedented crash resulted in consequences that nearly cost the athlete his life.?

While behind the wheel with his pregnant wife, Alicia, by his side, Van’s car reportedly careened into five other vehicles. The cycling icon and his wife were left struggling for survival, although Hooydonck’s ordeal was eventually not limited to the accident itself. He needed a swift placement in a medically induced coma at Antwerp Hospital, a dire situation that sent shockwaves through the cycling community. But that just marked the beginning of an ill-fated path, as Van was soon forced to sacrifice his passion.?

Cycling professional witnesses a brush with death?

The unexpected collision immediately left Van Hooydonck and his wife fighting for survival. Regrettably, Van’s heart issues were also discovered, leading to the installation of an internal defibrillator (ICD) to address his potential cardiac arrhythmias. The racer, known for his epic time with Jumbo-Visma, found himself at the untimely end of his cycling career. Given that his injuries were too severe to continue, the cyclist ultimately made a sorrowful announcement that left an unforgettable void in the sports community.?

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After he emerged from the coma, Van had evidently found himself in a new chapter of life, one no longer dominated by his profession. The ICD became a constant companion, as the Belgian cyclist reflected on his journey. “I realize that I was incredibly lucky,” he said, recalling the harrowing accident, adding, “Things may have gone differently if I hadn’t gotten good help so quickly.” Although he felt better with time, Van was still undergoing the pressure of dealing with its consequences.?

Cyclist’s shocking announcement post-injury?

Sadly, Van had to accept the fact that his health condition was irreversible, marking the end of a glorious cycling career. However, amidst these hurdles, a silver lining emerged for him, raising a beam of hope in the dark cloud of uncertainty. The Hooydonck family welcomed their son Alessio into the world, bringing renewed joy and hope to the cyclist’s home. Facing the ultimatum of his professional journey, Van looked forward to the adventures of fatherhood.

As he embraced his new chapter, which was filled with its own challenges and triumphs, Hooydonck found a key to surviving the predominant consequences of his fatal crash. Recovering slowly but steadily, he shared, “I would like to express my gratitude to the people who helped me, the medical team at the hospital and all the fans who sent me messages.” Cyclist Van Aert, who had shared a largely similar schedule throughout 2023 with Hooydonck, expressed unlimited grief after his teammate’s shocking situation. He choked up while addressing the matter, stating, “It’s very sad news.”

Playing 32 races together, Aert and Hooydonck always shared the bonding of a close friend, which went beyond their cycling careers. While Van’s premature retirement left his fans in shock?, he will remain a rider who played with immense potential and determination. Exiting the professional stage, the cyclist is eagerly welcoming his new life. Van Hooydonck’s bicycle journey, though ended too soon, is a celebrated note of his unwavering spirit and survival in the sports arena.?

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