Carolina Marín: "I Don't Know If I Will Play Again"

Carolina Marín finds herself at a critical juncture after suffering her third severe knee injury during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. In a heartfelt message shared this Sunday via video, Marín revealed that she is "completely devastated" and expressed uncertainty about her future in the sport. The Olympic champion, who has been a key figure in international badminton, now faces a long recovery process both physically and mentally.

During the Olympic semifinals, Marín was on the verge of securing a spot in the final against China's He Bing Jiao, having won the first set 21-14 and leading 10-6 in the second. However, as she seemed to be on her way to the final, Marín's knee, which had previously been a source of trouble, gave out once more. She collapsed on the court, and despite receiving medical attention and using a knee brace to continue playing, she could not keep competing. In tears, she left the main court at Porte de la Chapelle pavilion, leaving fans with a heartbreaking image.

Tests conducted in Madrid confirmed a severe injury, with a torn anterior cruciate ligament and damage to both menisci. As a result, Marín had to undergo surgery which, although medically successful, marks a painful and challenging phase in her career.

In her message, Marín did not hide the emotional impact of this new injury. "I am completely devastated, my soul is shattered. I will need much more time than I needed to recover from previous injuries. I need to rebuild myself, especially physically and also mentally. The surgery went very well, but this is the worst I've ever damaged my knee," she confessed visibly moved.

The player expressed serious doubts about her future in badminton. "I don't know what will become of Carolina Marín in the future. I don't know if I will play again, if I will pick up a badminton racket again or if I will compete in another Olympic Games. Right now, that's the least of my concerns; what my body and mind are most focused on is finding peace and tranquility within myself," she expressed.

Marín also took the opportunity to thank her fans and family for their support. "I have received thousands of messages and all the love shown to me has been my true gold medal. Despite not winning gold at these Games, I have received another medal: your unconditional support," she added.

The Andalusian also highlighted the gesture of her rival, He Bing Jiao, who offered her a Spanish pin during the medal ceremony and consoled her with a hug. "I want to thank her for such a beautiful gesture and for supporting me during that difficult moment. I wish her all the best and congratulate her on her silver medal," said Marín.

Finally, Marín asked her followers to be patient with her. "I am going to need a lot of time and I ask you to give me some space, which I will be eternally grateful for. Now Carolina needs to surround herself with family, friends, and close people to slowly rebuild," she concluded.