Do Athletes Who Suffer a Major Cardiac Incident Like Christian Eriksen’s Return to Their Top-Level Careers?
After incidents like the one that befell Christian Eriksen during UEFA Euro 2020, many wonder whether athletes who suffer a major cardiac incident can ever return to their top-level careers. The short answer is often no, due to the significant risks involved. However, there are cases where athletes have managed to persist despite such serious health events.
The Unlikely Return: A Rare Occurrence
Christian Eriksen's cardiac arrest during a tournament game is a well-documented event that left many in the medical and sports communities deeply concerned. While it is extremely rare for athletes to return to their top levels after such a medical emergency, the condition of the athlete post-incident can significantly impact their ability to compete at the highest level.
According to medical experts, the reasons for not returning to top-level sports are manifold. Despite surviving the initial cardiac arrest and its complications, many athletes face a high risk of another cardiac event, making it unsafe for them to compete at their previous level of performance. In Eriksen’s case, even if he survives and recovers from the cardiac arrest, the doctors and health professionals might recommend against returning to full-time professional competition due to the ongoing risk.
Case Studies: Struggles and Adaptations
However, there are instances of athletes who have managed to overcome similar cardiac incidents and continue to play professional sports. One such example is Washington, a former Brazilian footballer who was nicknamed “Braveheart” after suffering a near lethal cardiac incident on the pitch. Following a successful surgery, Washington resumed playing and enjoyed a productive career in Brazil, retiring at the age of 35. This case demonstrates the potential for recovery but also the need for careful medical supervision and management.
Another example is Daley Blind, a Dutch footballer who had two near-miss incidents during matches and currently has a pacemaker. Despite his history of cardiac issues, Blind was deemed fit to continue playing. He took part in the 2020 UEFA Euro and admitted to his emotional struggle when Eriksen’s incident occurred. Although Blind faced internal conflicts about his safety, he chose to play, highlighting the mental fortitude and dedication of professional athletes.
Common Fates: Retirement After Cardiac Events
Despite these exceptional cases, the general trend in such incidents is that most athletes retire after discovering lingering heart conditions. This is especially true in high-stakes and physically demanding sports like professional football. LaMarcus Aldridge, a professional basketball player with the Los Angeles Clippers, is a recent example. After being diagnosed with a heart condition and experiencing multiple medical issues, Aldridge retired from professional basketball earlier this year, citing medical reasons.
Geneva, Switzerland's leading cardiologist has even gone as far as banning Washington from ever playing football again. This decision underscores the delicate balancing act between safety and the passionate desire to compete in some athletes.
Conclusion: The Ongoing Debate
The question of whether athletes who suffer major cardiac incidents can return to their top-level careers remains contentious. While there are inspiring examples of athletes who have overcome significant health challenges, the risks associated with such incidents cannot be ignored. The focus on player safety is paramount, and it's crucial for medical professionals, teams, and athletes themselves to make informed decisions based on the latest medical advice and the individual's unique health situation.