In a historic day for German women’s cross-country skiing, Coletta Rydzek captured her first World Cup victory during an exhilarating sprint in Lahti, Finland, marking a significant milestone for the sport. On March 21, 2025, the 27-year-old from Oberstdorf delivered a performance that not only stunned her competitors but also delighted the crowds who witnessed the race.
Rydzek’s remarkable triumph came as she expertly navigated the final stretch of the race, outpacing notable athletes like Kristine Stavaas Skistad from Norway and Switzerland's Nadine Fähndrich. In a strategic display, Rydzek's tactical prowess shone through as she executed her plan flawlessly. “Das ist wirklich unglaublich, ich kann es nicht beschreiben,” she exclaimed after the race, conveying her disbelief and elation at her win. “Ich hätte nie gedacht, dass ich das mal erreiche. Auf der Zielgeraden habe ich gemerkt, dass ich hier gewinnen kann und habe alles gegeben.” Her brother, Johannes Rydzek, a well-known Nordic combined athlete, was on hand to celebrate with her, adding a personal touch to her remarkable accomplishment.
The significance of Rydzek’s victory extends beyond her personal achievement; it marks the first World Cup win for the German Ski Association (DSV) this season and the first German sprint success in over 23 years. This victory has resonated deeply within the community of German cross-country skiing, opening new doors for female competitors.
Alongside Rydzek’s success, teammate Victoria Carl also made headlines by securing her place on the podium in the overall World Cup standings. Although Carl finished seventh in the sprint, her consistent performances throughout the season have granted her the distinction of being the first German woman to end the season on the podium of the overall World Cup.
Expressing her joy, Carl said, “Es ist ein unglaubliches Gefühl, Teil dieser Geschichte zu sein. Die harte Arbeit hat sich ausgezahlt und ich bin stolz, diesen Erfolg mit meinem Team zu teilen.” Her statement not only highlights the pride she takes in her achievement but also underscores the hard work that has been a hallmark of her journey in competitive skiing.
Historically, the achievements of women in German skiing have progressed slowly compared to their male counterparts. Previous notable athletes like Evi Sachenbacher-Stehle, who finished fourth in the World Cup rankings twice, serve as a backdrop against which Rydzek and Carl's successes stand out. The men's side has seen triumphs like those of René Sommerfeldt and Tobias Angerer, who won the overall World Cup, but with Rydzek’s and Carl’s achievements, a new standard is being set in the women’s competitions.
This momentous occasion not only celebrates individual victories but also represents a turning point in the sport of cross-country skiing for German women. As both Rydzek and Carl continue to break records and achieve personal milestones, they inspire the next generation of athletes, paving the way for future success.
The race in Lahti will long be remembered, not just for the thrilling performances it showcased, but as a marker of how far women’s skiing has come in Germany. For Coletta Rydzek, March 21, 2025, will forever stand as the day she etched her name in the annals of sports history, while Victoria Carl’s historic podium finish serves as a beacon of progress in the pursuit of excellence in winter sports.
