Dutch cycling legend Marianne Vos goes under knife after ongoing leg issues - ‘I couldn’t overcome it’
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Published 28/08/2023 at 14:16 GMT
Marianne Vos has taken a big step to relieve her injury problems after undergoing surgery on her left iliac artery. The Dutchwoman revealed the news to her Instagram followers in a heartfelt post. Vos is one of the pioneers of women's cycling in a glittering career that includes three general classification titles in the Giro Donne, and two stage wins at the La Vuelta Femenina.
Highlights from La Vuelta Femenina as Vos sprints to win on Stage 4
Marianne Vos has undergone surgery to help ease her injury woes in what is a premature end to the Dutchwoman’s season.
The three-time Giro Donne winner revealed how she pushed through the pain barrier this year, after winning two individual stages at La Vuelta Femenina and claiming the overall points classification.
Those victories at La Vuelta were in stages 3 and 4 respectively – her first two wins on the Spanish Grand Tour.
However, those exploits have taken their toll on the 36-year-old, who will not be back in action this year.
She posted a heartfelt message to her followers on Instagram, that was shared by her team on Twitter, and stressed her intention to return to the sport pain free.
She said: “Last week I underwent surgery on my left iliac artery. After some days in the hospital, I am currently back home to start a careful recovery and rehabilitation program of 10 weeks. Obviously, this means the end of my 2023 season.
“I have been struggling with pain and lack in power of my left leg for a long period of time. This season symptoms became worse and it wasn't easy that I couldn't overcome it.
“My biggest hope for now is to be able to return to competition without symptoms. I would love to continue riding and racing at the highest level and will surely do my utterly best to be back.
“I would like to thank all of you for your ongoing support."
Vos was most recently in action at the UCI Gravel World Series round in Sweden, where she claimed victory at the Gravel Grit 'n Grind in Halmstad.
The 36-year-old's versatility came to the fore, competing in the event after previously taking part in the Giro d'Italia Donne, Tour de France Femmes and Road World Championships.
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