“The end of a top sports career often feels like falling off a cliff.” Four in ten Belgian athletes experience mental difficulties: from mild complaints to severe depression or addictions. This is what researchers from KU Leuven say after the candid interview of ex-cyclist Leif Hoste about his alcohol addiction. “Millions are invested to ensure that our champions deliver top performances. But when their careers stop, there is insufficient support,” says professor Katrien Fransen. She gives tips on how to avoid the big black hole.
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After the confession of former professional cyclist Leif Hoste: four out of ten top athletes suffer from mental problems after their career
Bytaketonews
Dec 20, 2025