Elisabeth Seitz: Farewell to gymnastics and courageous allegations of abuse

Elisabeth Seitz: Farewell to gymnastics and courageous allegations of abuse

On the stage of the European Turn European Championships in Leipzig, Elisabeth Seitz announced her resignation from the active sports career on May 29, 2025. The 32-year-old, who is known for outstanding achievements in the gymnastics, announced the step for health reasons, in particular due to physical restrictions that she has suffered in recent years.

Seitz, who continued her career at MTV Stuttgart in 2015, has an impressive balance. She started at the age of 17 at her first World Cup and celebrated the winning of the World Cup bronze medal in 2018. Her career also includes participation in three Olympic Games, becoming a European champion in Munich in 2022 and was awarded six times as the gymnast of the year. Most recently, however, she missed the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris due to an Achilles tendon tear, but was on site as an ARD expert.

a last appearance and future plans

During her last European Championship, Seitz not only appeared to end her sporting career, but also to express a personal thank you to her fans. This gesture testifies to its connection to the gymnastics community, which has inspired it over many years. In addition, she announced that she plans to become a mother, which is another focus in her future life.

The athlete not only set standards in terms of sport, but also in the discussion about ethical standards in competitive sports. Seitz has actively campaigned for more self -determination of gymnasts by pleading for longer suits, among other things. She particularly urges a thorough reappraisal of the allegations of abuse, which were levied in the Stuttgart and Mannheim bases.

allegations against former trainer

In a brave step, Seitz has levied serious allegations against her former trainer Claudia Schunk. These affect power abuse and attacking behavior that Seitz had to experience in her youth. Years ago, she reported these incidents to the German Turner Association (DTB) to protect other children and girls from similar experiences. Your goal is clear: no child or girl should have to go through similar trauma.

These problems are not unique for gymnastics. In the current debate about violence and abuse in competitive sports, it becomes clear that a fundamental review and change in structures are required. Successful prevention requires a deep understanding and support of all those involved - from athletes to coaches to the parents.

In order to support the athletes in their development, the discussion also emphasizes the need for training measures for trainers. The promotion of mental health in competitive sports and the creation of transparent training structures are key aspects that urgently need to be addressed in the future. The challenges of athletes experienced must not remain hidden, but require the open dialogue and the commitment of everyone in order to create a safe environment.

Elisabeth Seitz leaves not only a sporty legacy, but also a call for reform in the sports community, which goes far beyond gymnastics. Your charges and the desire for change are an impetus for everyone to actively work for the well -being of the athletes.

For more information on the allegations of Seitz and the associated topics, visit the articles at SPIEGEL for comprehensive perspectives in competitive sports in Hogrefe .