The choice to walk away was a calculated decision that she shared transparently with her followers on social media. Writing on her LinkedIn profile, the young rider admitted that she had lost the essential joy and motivation required to ride and compete at the highest level. She stood firmly by her choice, describing it as a necessary step for her personal development and well-being.
“That is why I am now giving myself the space to discover who I am and what I want to do. It is a leap into the unknown, but one that gives me confidence and freedom,” Van Empel explained in her post.
Fem van Empel has 50 professional wins
Exploring future options and a potential return
Reflecting on the past six months, Van Empel expressed absolutely no regrets regarding her departure from the peloton.
“I enjoy all the freedom and make the most of it,” she stated. “I have traveled a lot. I also have fun plans for the coming months. After that, I am open to everything, I am still young.”
While the cycling world awaits news of a potential comeback, the 23-year-old remains completely non-committal about making a return to her former career. “It is still too early to say. I like doing a lot of things, so maybe I will try a different sport. I will see what comes my way,” Van Empel concluded.