Dutch rider Aafke Soet announces retirement after battling anorexia

Dutch rider Aafke Soet has announced her retirement from professional cycling after a five-year anorexia battle.

"I have been too long ashamed of something that I had to deal with. Something that probably ruined my chances of having a successful career” wrote Soet on social media. She continues, "I have suffered from anorexia. I have had an eating disorder for approximately five years, which went up and down, but the destructive thoughts were always there."

Her goal is to help others who suffer from the same conditions, and she will become an ambassador for Dutch organization Weetwatjedoet. This organization is dedicated to preventing eating problems and promoting healthy performance. "I am looking forward to putting my energy, creativity and recovered positivity into joining their mission," Soet added.

In a top team like Jumbo Visma, Soet had a bright future, but her anorexia forced her to change her plans. "I hope nobody has to experience this, but sadly is very common in cycling and the society we live in today. When I was finally able to ease my mind, I could see things more clearly again,” concluded Soet.