World champion ski jumper Alex Loutitt is finding positives during her recovery from a serious knee injury. The 21-year-old athlete from Calgary, who made history as the first Canadian to claim a world title in women’s large hill ski jumping in 2023, suffered a torn ACL in her left knee during an Olympic test event in Predazzo, Italy, last September.
As a result of the injury, Loutitt will not be able to participate in the upcoming Olympic Games in Milan and Cortina, Italy, scheduled for February. She shared from Salzburg, Austria, where she is undergoing rehabilitation at Red Bull’s Athlete Performance Center, that she anticipates a year-long break before returning to competition.
The incident occurred during a jump in the qualifying round for the large hill event in Predazzo when Loutitt’s knee buckled upon landing on the plastic-coated turf used during the summer Grand Prix season. Having previously undergone knee surgery in 2022, Loutitt was aware of existing weaknesses in her knee, describing the injury as the result of an unfortunate move.
Following surgery by orthopedic specialist Dr. Christian Fink in Innsbruck, Austria, Loutitt stayed in Austria due to concerns about blood clots. While joining Red Bull’s roster of athletes is typically associated with financial benefits and enhanced marketing, Loutitt is focusing on her recovery journey and emotional well-being at the Athlete Performance Center.
Loutitt expressed gratitude for the support and camaraderie among fellow injured athletes at the center, highlighting the understanding and shared experiences that have helped her cope with the dashed hopes of competing in the 2026 Olympics. Her daily routine now includes water therapy, anti-gravity treadmills, hyperbaric chambers, and various physical therapy techniques.
Acknowledging her ADHD diagnosis at age 18, Loutitt mentioned that therapists consider her condition by keeping sessions brief and purposeful. She emphasized the importance of staying motivated and feeling supported during the rehabilitation process, reflecting on the personal growth and resilience gained through the experience.
Looking ahead, Loutitt plans to be present in Predazzo during the Olympic Games to support the Canadian team and her Austrian boyfriend, Daniel Tschofenig. While acknowledging the disappointment of missing the opportunity to compete in the Olympics, she remains optimistic about new possibilities that may arise from this setback, including potential roles in supporting her team at the event.
Loutitt emphasized the significance of being present for loved ones, expressing her willingness to overcome challenges and be a source of support for those who matter most to her during difficult times.
