Triathlon legend Daniela Ryf announces her retirement as injury ends her illustrious career prematurely – Elite News

Daniela Ryf, one of the greatest triathletes in sports history, has announced her immediate retirement from the sport.

The 37-year-old “Angry Bird” had already announced in early 2024 that this would be her last season in elite triathlon. However, her season was cut short early when she was diagnosed with a tailbone injury after a painful eighth-place finish at IRONMAN South Africa.

Daniela had originally hoped to return at the T100 London in August, but had to put that plan on hold when the injury did not heal as desired and has now had to announce that she will not be able to race in 2024.

This is a huge blow for Ryf, who should be at the forefront of any GOAT conversation in swimming/cycling/running in any era. She has been an incredible ambassador for the sport and has continually pushed the boundaries of what is possible, thrilling her fans and inspiring other athletes to new heights.

Ryf announces resignation

She announced the sad news on Monday morning in a post on her Instagram account:

“Unfortunately, I have to announce that I am retiring early and will not be able to compete in any more races this year.

“My doctors have discovered the cause of the pain in my coccyx. The diagnosis is inflammation at the end of the spinal cord (conus medullaris). I am treating it in the hope of being able to compete again towards the end of the year. We have tried everything to get back to health, but the treatment has not been as effective as hoped. It is time to respect the signs of my body. I am back to solid fitness, but the injury prevents me from training with the volume and intensity needed to get back to top level.

“This year my goal was to give it my all again. The result is not what I had hoped for, but knowing that we tried everything reassures me. I am grateful for what I have achieved over the years and for the incredible performances my body has made.

“I am infinitely grateful to my team, especially my coach, my girlfriend and my friends and family for their support. I am grateful to my partners who have stood by me and I am looking forward to our projects next year.

“Letting go of the goals I've set for myself is hard and something I've never had to do before. So it was a difficult decision for me to make, but my coach, doctor and I have come to the conclusion that it is the right thing for my long-term health.”

What’s next for Daniela?

“It's time to slow down and enjoy life more 😁🙌🏼. I'm looking forward to the next chapter, even if it hurts to let go.”

“I will be on the sidelines in Nice to celebrate the triathlon with all of you. And last but not least, I thank my fans for all the love, cheers and support I have felt throughout my career ❤️ I will remember this crazy journey forever.

“Don’t be sad that it’s over. Be happy that it happened! 😁”

Ryf's incredible triathlon resume

Daniela's incredible career has earned her numerous awards and a record that is quite simply stunning.

She has dominated the sport incredibly for many years at long distances, winning five IRONMAN World Championship titles and five IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship victories. Pretty amazing.

Before the Swiss star made the brilliant switch to long-track racing, he had represented Switzerland twice at the Olympic Games, in Beijing 2008 and in London 2012.