Olympia: ARD Expert Felix Neureuther Reacts to Lindsey Vonn’s Devastating Fall
In a shocking turn of events at the Olympic downhill race held in Cortina, Italy, ski legend Lindsey Vonn faced a severe fall. This incident occurred during what may be her final competitive event. Vonn, age 41, was left lying on the slope for several minutes before being airlifted for medical treatment.
Felix Neureuther’s Reaction to the Incident
ARD’s expert Felix Neureuther, alongside commentator Bernd Schmelzer, reacted in real time as the drama unfolded. Schmelzer expressed immediate concern by stating, “Out and over.” Meanwhile, Neureuther gasped, “Oh my God. Oh, damn it. I’m sorry for saying that.” Their shock was palpable as they witnessed the fall.
Details of the Fall
- Date: The incident took place during the Olympic downhill event.
- Location: Cortina, Italy.
- Age of Vonn: 41 years old.
Vonn appeared to lose control after hitting a gate, resulting in a distressing twist in mid-air before crashing down. Neureuther noted the dangers she faced, mentioning that her skis had caught in a way that exacerbated the fall.
Emotional Moments in the Broadcast
As Vonn cried out in pain, Neureuther requested the broadcast team lower the audio feed, calling the situation “unbearable.” Schmelzer echoed these sentiments, criticizing the Olympic Broadcasting Services for repeatedly showcasing Vonn’s distress. “I’ve never seen a fall this brutal in nearly 40 years,” Schmelzer remarked, highlighting the severity of the accident.
The Aftermath
With the helicopter en route to transport Vonn, Neureuther expressed his emotional struggle to refocus on the race. “I don’t know how to approach the rest of the event after witnessing that,” he stated with a shaky voice. The bond between Neureuther and Vonn dates back to their youth, as both were born in 1984.
This incident has raised discussions about athlete safety and the responsibilities of broadcasters during critical moments in sports. The responses from both Neureuther and Schmelzer have underscored the need for empathy in sports coverage.
