1. When Injury Strikes — Even Champions Must Pause
At the end of 2024, Swiss show jumper Steve Guerdat was looking forward to the new season with cautious optimism. Having just undergone a meniscus surgery, he was working toward returning in the spring.
But then came a painful twist: a herniated disc pressed against his nerves, requiring a second back surgery on the same area. His season was over before it began.
Not only did this force him to miss the 2025 FEI World Cup Final held in his home country, but he also had to withdraw from the Rolex Grand Prix at the Dutch Masters—two of the most prestigious events he had aimed for.
“I desperately wanted to compete,” Steve shared. “Especially in the World Cup Final on home soil. But reality caught up with me faster than my dreams.”
2. Choosing to Step Back — A Lesson in Limits
This was Steve’s second surgery on the same section of his back. His doctors gave a clear message: this recovery would be longer, harder, and more uncertain than the last.
They advised a full stop—no pushing, no shortcuts. If not handled properly, even everyday activities might become difficult, let alone riding at the highest level.
“I was told to prepare for a long recovery,” Steve said. “And the doctors were honest with me—nerve-related healing is unpredictable. There’s no guarantee I’ll regain full sensation in my leg. But I’m working at it, every single day.”
Instead of chasing quick returns, he made a rare but wise decision for elite athletes: he chose to fully focus on recovery, to build his strength slowly and mindfully.
3. First Ride Back — A Quiet Test in Italy
After months of physical therapy and mental preparation, Steve quietly returned to the ring in late May at the CSI4* competition in Gorla Minore, Italy.
He didn’t rush into the spotlight. Instead, he chose a moderate event to rebuild rhythm, experimenting with different horses to reconnect with his instincts.
In the 1.55m Grand Prix, Steve paired with the low-profile horse Albfürhrens Iashin Sitte. Despite being an under-the-radar contender, the duo showed remarkable steadiness. They made it into the jump-off, and though a 4-fault penalty kept them off the podium, they finished fifth overall—a solid, confidence-boosting result.
“He’s not the flashiest horse,” Steve said, “and he hasn’t won much yet. But he’s quiet, hardworking, and reliable. I truly appreciate working with him.”
It wasn’t a triumphant comeback, but it was a meaningful first step back in the saddle.
4. Wearing the Red and White Again — A Proud Return to the National Team
Just days later, Steve’s momentum grew stronger. At the Land Rover Discovery Nations Cup™ of Switzerland, he returned to international competition—this time representing Team Switzerland.
Riding his trusted partner Dynamix de Belhême, Steve delivered double clear rounds, helping secure a team victory for Switzerland. It was his first appearance for the national team since the surgery and a symbolic moment in his recovery.
“To wear the Swiss jacket again and compete for my country—this meant a great deal to me,” he reflected.
5. The Philosophy of a Rider — Love Is Not Enough Without Health
Though he’s returned to competition, Steve remains realistic: his right leg hasn’t fully regained sensation. The nerve damage lingers, and its timeline remains uncertain.
“Doctors don’t know if I’ll recover full feeling. But I’m doing everything I can,” he says. “As long as I can keep riding, I already feel like I’ve won.”
More importantly, the injury changed his perspective. For a rider with Olympic medals and global victories, this setback reminded him of something deeper: that being strong also means being kind to your body, trusting your team, and respecting time.
“Pain and fear made me realize—no matter how much I love this sport, if health is missing, nothing else matters. Life has given me so much, and I never forget that.”
Epilogue: A Quiet Comeback Is Louder Than a Trophy
Steve Guerdat didn’t return with a grand win or dramatic announcement. Instead, he chose to go slow, to stay grounded, and to let each competition guide his rhythm.
This time, he wasn’t chasing medals—he was chasing longevity, connection, and the joy of riding again.
And sometimes, that kind of comeback speaks louder than any podium ever could.
