Last summer, Sven Roosen delivered a phenomenal performance, securing fourth place in the Olympic decathlon in Paris. With a remarkable national record and a wealth of experiences gained, Sven now faces new challenges. We spoke with Sven about the struggles of dealing with injuries, their impact on his career, and how he manages to stay positive. The conversation offered inspiring insights into the power of resilience, long-term planning, and the art of putting things into perspective.

Injuries and the importance of sustainable solutions

Sven candidly shares his experiences with injuries, including a tear in his patellar tendon that he’s currently dealing with. While he may have to miss the European Indoor Championships in Apeldoorn, his sights remain firmly set on the World Championships in September.
“I’d rather choose a sustainable solution,” he explains, “to ensure I’m at my best for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.”

His approach underscores the importance of proper recovery in elite sports. Sven deliberately opts for long-term solutions in consultation with medical experts, rather than quick fixes like injections or physical therapy alone.

Positivity

One of the most striking aspects of the interview is Sven’s unwavering positive attitude. He views every setback as an opportunity for growth.
“I know this journey will make me stronger,” he says. “The time I’m investing in recovery now is helping me build a stronger foundation, which will benefit me in the future.”

He also reflects on the impact of his mindset:
“Conversations like this make me realize just how positive I actually am. Even in tough times, I manage to find silver linings.”

Focus on growth

Reflecting on his performance in Paris, where he placed fourth, Sven emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement. Despite injuries and obstacles, he remains driven:
“I know I haven’t yet reached my full potential. That only makes me hungrier to give it my all when the time comes!”

Long-term goals and balance

With the 2024 World Championships on the horizon and the ultimate goal of the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, Sven demonstrates that long-term thinking is a crucial element of elite sports. But that doesn’t mean he’s lost sight of his passion for the sport.
“The best thing about sports is being able to train and perform freely, without pain. That’s what I’m really looking forward to.”

Life lessons from sports

This interview with Sven Roosen teaches us more than just about elite sports. It’s a story of perseverance, even when times get tough, and how a positive mindset can help you come out stronger from challenging periods. His focus on sustainable solutions and long-term success is an inspiration, not only for athletes but for anyone striving for personal growth.

Together with TalentEmpowerment, Fonto supports over 50 top talents in the sports and music industries. Sven Roosen is the face of this collaboration.