Tess Ledeux Approaches Competitive Return After Severe Head Injury
The freestyle skier targets a comeback following a long recovery from a concussion.
1Severe Injury and Recovery
Tess Ledeux, the 2022 Olympic silver medalist, suffered a major setback on March 13, 2025. During the final World Cup stage in Tignes, she sustained a severe head injury after a heavy fall. This traumatic brain injury forced her to miss the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics in February 2026, marking a difficult period.
2Return to Team Training
The 24-year-old athlete recently achieved a significant milestone by rejoining the French national ski team for a training camp in Stubai, Austria. While she has not yet returned to the snowpark, this appearance signals a positive shift in her recovery process. She shared this progress with fans via her social media channels.
3Persistent Symptoms Remain
Despite her return to the team environment, Ledeux is not yet ready for full competition. She continues to experience lingering symptoms, specifically headaches and fatigue, which necessitate a cautious approach. The athlete emphasized that she is avoiding rushing the process, prioritizing long-term health over an immediate return to high-intensity freestyle skiing maneuvers.
4Cautious Comeback Strategy
Ledeux is currently managing her return with extreme care to avoid setbacks. She noted that while a return this winter is possible, it remains a matter of weeks rather than days. The triple world champion is working closely with her medical team to ensure she does not skip essential steps in her rehabilitation.
5Long-term Health Impact
The athlete acknowledges that this injury has fundamentally altered her life and perspective. She openly admits that she will likely live with the consequences of this trauma indefinitely. This realization has changed her approach to her career, forcing her to balance her intense competitive drive with the reality of her physical limitations.
6Unfinished Competitive Dreams
Despite the severity of her ordeal, Ledeux maintains her passion for the sport. She confirmed that her desire to win and reach the top of the podium remains as strong as it was before the accident. She is motivated by several unfinished goals and dreams that she still hopes to achieve in skiing.
7Context of Head Injuries
Concussions in freestyle skiing are particularly dangerous due to the high-impact nature of the sport. Athletes often face long recovery windows, as the brain requires significant time to heal from neurological trauma. Ledeux’s experience highlights the risks inherent in elite winter sports and the rigorous medical protocols required for a safe return.
8Future Outlook
While no specific date for her return has been set, the progress made in Austria is a promising sign for her career. Ledeux’s focus remains on gradual improvement and listening to her body. Her eventual return will be a testament to her resilience after missing the major Olympic cycle in 2026.
Original article: Ouest-France — Tess Ledeux Approaches Competitive Return After Severe Head Injury