German athletes face setbacks amid health and injury news

Several German athletes and sports figures are facing significant health and professional setbacks. Tennis player Eva Lys has announced the early end of her 2026 season to focus on her physical and mental health. Lys, who has been battling spondyloarthritis, described the year as “one of the toughest years of my life” following a decline in her world ranking to 136.

In football, German national player Selina Cerci is sidelined indefinitely following surgery. The Arsenal striker, who was the Bundesliga top scorer in 2025, is currently undergoing rehabilitation for knee issues.

In table tennis, Annett Kaufmann finished as runner-up at the European Championships in Ljubljana, losing 3-4 to Elizabeth Abrahamian. Due to local regulations in Slovenia, the Russian winner was not permitted to use the Russian national anthem or flag during the medal ceremony. Additionally, Michael Graf, brother of tennis legend Steffi Graf, has caused concern after posting images of himself living in the Las Vegas tunnel system while facing a warrant in Nevada.