Slovak alpine skier Petra Vlhová successfully returned to elite competition at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games, marking the end of a 752-day hiatus caused by a severe knee injury. The Olympic gold medalist, who secured her return with bib number 23, faced significant physical and personal transitions, including the end of her five-year relationship with Michal Kyselica in late 2024 and a restructuring of her coaching staff.
The Road to the 2026 Winter Olympics
Vlhová’s journey back to the starting gate was defined by repeated setbacks in her recovery process. After sustaining a knee injury that sidelined her for nearly two years, the athlete prioritized the 2026 Winter Olympics as her primary comeback objective. According to Vlhová, the goal was not immediate podium placement, but rather a return to the “competitive mode” required for elite racing.
Following her run, Vlhová noted that the simple act of returning to the slopes represented a personal victory after months of intensive rehabilitation. She acknowledged that while she remains in the early stages of her athletic comeback, the experience of competing in Cortina was a milestone she considered a memory for a lifetime.
Vlhová stated that she did not want to end her career because of an injury and emphasized her desire to return to the top if possible. She described the process as challenging for an athlete and reiterated her determination to reclaim her position at the elite level.
Did you know?
Petra Vlhová’s return to the slopes took 752 days. Her comeback required not only physical conditioning, such as interval training and cycling, but also a significant mental shift in how she separates her professional persona from her personal life.
Transitioning Personal and Professional Support
Vlhová’s return to form has been accompanied by major changes in her support network. In late 2024, she and her long-term partner, Michal Kyselica, announced the end of their relationship. Both parties confirmed via social media that the decision was mutual, citing no involvement of a third party, and stated they remain in contact as close friends.
Kyselica, who had been present for many of Vlhová’s career milestones, expressed his continued support for her recovery in an interview with Nový Čas. He noted that he remains available to assist her, emphasizing their shared history and mutual respect.
To bolster her competitive standing, Vlhová also overhauled her coaching team. In May, she announced that Austrian coach Mario Rafetzeder would take over as her head trainer. Rafetzeder brings experience from the Finnish men’s national team and Swiss skicross programs. Vlhová expressed confidence that his leadership will help her return to full competitiveness in the World Cup circuit.
Future Outlook and Training Philosophy
Vlhová’s training regimen has intensified as she seeks to regain her position as a top-tier contender. Her social media updates have highlighted a rigorous routine, including sand training, track work, and high-intensity cycling. This physical workload is part of a broader effort to reach the podium again, a goal she describes as a driving force behind her continued career.
Vlhová reflected on the impact of her injury, noting the need to separate the public figure—the professional athlete—from her private self. She emphasized that athletes are not machines and highlighted the toll that high-level professional sports can take on an individual’s identity.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long was Petra Vlhová away from professional skiing? Vlhová spent 752 days away from competition due to a knee injury before returning at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
- Who is the new coach for Petra Vlhová? As of May, the team is led by Austrian coach Mario Rafetzeder.
- Did Vlhová retire due to her injury? No, Vlhová specifically stated she did not want to end her career due to an injury and remains focused on returning to the top of the sport.
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