'Something still wasn't right' – Comeback falters for Chloé Dygert after months of rehab

Chloé Dygert’s much-anticipated return to competitive cycling in 2026 has been hampered by a series of health setbacks, prolonging a difficult period for the American rider. After a challenging 2025 season, she entered the new year hopeful of a fresh start but was forced to abandon both the Tour Down Under stage race and its one-day event. Although she managed to complete the Tour of Flanders, finishing 39th, her campaign was cut short by a crash at Paris-Roubaix, leading to further complications. Despite months of rehabilitation, Dygert disclosed via social media that her recovery has been far from straightforward. She has been diagnosed with Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S), a condition that affects athletes’ metabolic and hormonal functions, alongside other health issues. An MRI revealed that the shoulder injury sustained in her Roubaix crash will require surgery, as rehab efforts have failed to resolve the damage. Additional scans also uncovered a collapsed nasal valve, necessitating another surgical procedure. Dygert’s struggles are not new; her difficulties date back to a severe crash at the 2020 World Championships time trial, where she was the defending champion. Since joining Canyon-SRAM in 2021, she has battled to regain her previous form, with glimpses of success such as a stage win at the 2025 Tour Down Under overshadowed by ongoing physical and mental challenges. Earlier this year, she expressed determination to learn from past mistakes and prioritise health, but the latest developments have forced her to recalibrate her goals. In her Instagram statement, Dygert remained resolute despite the setbacks, emphasising that her ambitions remain unchanged even if the path to recovery has shifted. She acknowledged the frustration of the situation but committed to focusing on regaining her health before returning to racing. Her candid update highlights the often unseen struggles athletes face behind the scenes and underscores the resilience required to overcome such adversity in elite sport.