German biathlete Franziska Preuss complained about harassment on social media during the Olympic Games in Milan.
The German biathlon team won only one medal at the 2026 Olympics — bronze in the mixed relay. After the mass start, Preuss announced that she was retiring from sports.
"In the last few days, I realized what was happening around me. Real psychological harassment from the outside. I was even banned from entering social media. This trend is frightening. We are human beings. I did not commit any crimes, I did not kill anyone. This is just sport.
It made me understand that a period that was supposed to be wonderful can be so spoiled. I realized that this stress is no longer worth any medal. I am happy that this chapter is closed. This is truly the right decision, and now I feel relieved.
If I get sick now, it will no longer be a drama. In winter, I will be able to see my family and friends without the constant fear of getting infected. That was part of the profession, but now I am happy that I can turn this page," Preuss said to Ski-nordique.
