Claudia Pechstein Retires from Speed Skating at 53

The five-time Olympic champion steps away from competition after resolving a 16-year legal battle with the International Skating Union.

Claudia Pechstein, a five-time Olympic gold medalist and six-time world champion, announced her retirement from competitive speed skating at age 53.
Her decision comes 11 days after settling a lengthy legal dispute with the International Skating Union (ISU) over a 2009 doping suspension she has always denied.
The legal case concluded with an out-of-court agreement, which Pechstein says brings her closer than ever to full rehabilitation of her reputation.
A recent blood test revealed a hereditary blood condition, supporting her longstanding claim that elevated reticulocyte levels were not linked to doping.
Pechstein plans to remain active in the sport as a coach and advisor, ending a career that included nine Olympic medals and 43 national titles.