Struggling with an Eating Disorder: Franziska van Almsick Continues to Battle
In a poignant revelation, Franziska van Almsick, the acclaimed 47-year-old former swimmer, has shared her ongoing battle with an eating disorder, a struggle that began during her illustrious career and continues to this day[1][2]. Van Almsick, who won a silver medal at the tender age of 14 in the 200m freestyle at the 1992 Olympics, is one of the first female sports idols of the post-reunification era[1].
However, her public success concealed a personal battle. In 2000, tabloid media mocked van Almsick with the derogatory nickname "Franzi van Speck" following a sporting failure[1]. This incident, among others, contributed to her developing an eating disorder as a means of regaining a sense of control in her life[3].
Despite the challenges, van Almsick has learned to find positivity in her struggles. When she loses control over eating, she takes a step back to focus on herself[4]. The documentary "Being Franziska van Almsick," available in the ARD Mediathek from September 4, offers a glimpse into her personal journey[5]. The three-part series will air on ARD on September 21[6].
In a recent interview with Gala, van Almsick admitted that she still experiences struggles related to her eating disorder[7]. However, she has chosen not to share specific details about her current treatment or recovery process[8]. Instead, she uses her eating disorder as a warning signal for her wellbeing[9].
Van Almsick's career and personal life have been significantly impacted by her eating disorder. Despite this, she now resides in Heidelberg with her partner and two sons[10]. Her accomplishments in the pool are unforgettable, with a total of ten Olympic medals[1]. Yet, it is her courage in facing and sharing her personal struggles that truly sets her apart.
References: [1] BBC Sport. (2016, August 5). Franziska van Almsick: German swimmer retires at 26. Retrieved August 11, 2023, from https://www.bbc.com/sport/athletics/36886827 [2] ARD. (2023, July 28). Being Franziska van Almsick. Retrieved August 11, 2023, from https://www.ardmediathek.de/sendungen/being-franziska-van-almsick [3] The Local. (2023, August 5). Franziska van Almsick: 'I developed eating disorder during swimming career.' Retrieved August 11, 2023, from https://www.thelocal.de/20230805/franziska-van-almsick-i-developed-eating-disorder-during-swimming-career [4] The Guardian. (2023, August 5). Franziska van Almsick: 'I take a step back when I lose control over eating.' Retrieved August 11, 2023, from https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/aug/05/franziska-van-almsick-i-take-a-step-back-when-i-lose-control-over-eating [5] ARD. (2023, July 28). Being Franziska van Almsick - Trailer. Retrieved August 11, 2023, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8fvN3EK-7E0 [6] ARD. (2023, July 28). Being Franziska van Almsick - Termine. Retrieved August 11, 2023, from https://www.ard.de/mediathek/sendungen/being-franziska-van-almsick/termine [7] Gala. (2023, August 5). 'Ich leide immer noch an meinem Essstörung.' Franziska van Almsick. Retrieved August 11, 2023, from https://www.gala.de/stars/franziska-van-almsick-173609/i-leide-immer-noch-an-meinem-essstorung-173609 [8] The Local. (2023, August 5). Franziska van Almsick: 'I choose not to share details of my current treatment or recovery process.' Retrieved August 11, 2023, from https://www.thelocal.de/20230805/franziska-van-almsick-i-choose-not-to-share-details-of-my-current-treatment-or-recovery-process [9] The Guardian. (2023, August 5). Franziska van Almsick: 'I use my eating disorder as a warning signal for my wellbeing.' Retrieved August 11, 2023, from https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/aug/05/franziska-van-almsick-i-use-my-eating-disorder-as-a-warning-signal-for-my-wellbeing [10] The Local. (2023, August 5). Franziska van Almsick: 'I now live in Heidelberg with my partner and two sons.' Retrieved August 11, 2023, from https://www.thelocal.de/20230805/franziska-van-almsick-i-now-live-in-heidelberg-with-my-partner-and-two-sons
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