Henrik von Eckermann, left everyone shocked in the arena after he was seen in years following a mishap during his gold medal event with the video of him falling off his horse viral
For the unversed, Sweden’s equestrian was visibly in tears after his Olympic gold medal hopes ended following a major crash on his horse, named King Edward, in the individual equestrian final.
Henrik von Eckermann who is widely known as the world number 1 after winning Olympic gold in Tokyo, was one of the favorites to win the event on Tuesday morning.
Swedish equestrian Henrik von Eckermann thrown off horse as he suffers fall during Paris Olympics 2024
Just wanted to show this video of Henrik von Eckermann, the world no.1. Not into horse riding so I have no clue what happened here if anyone can tell me. #Olympics2024Paris #Olympics #Equestrian pic.twitter.com/OomqSBMLbW
— GYRO (@GYRO6) August 6, 2024
Henrik von Eckermann’s Performance
He started his routine well aboard King Edward, a horse described as “little and plucky” by the live commentator.
He was performing quite well until the 6th jump, however, after the 7th jump on the course, the first over water, King Edward jittered, and Von Eckermann attempted to regain control.
King Edward managed to jump two more fences unconvincingly before drastically veering off course just a few meters from the perimeter fence. The horse abruptly stopped by a decorative sign of the Olympic mascot, sending Von Eckermann flying off his saddle and crashing to the ground.
Both the horse and Von Eckermann were unhurt, but in a tearful interview after the event, the Swede described the incident as “the worst thing that has happened to me.”
What Did Henrik von Eckermann Say?
During the post-match interview, Eckermann, expressed, “It’s a bit unforgivable on my part,” while adding, “it’s a shame.”
When reporters asked if he was in shock after the incident, he replied, “No, I just feel a shame,” adding that “I have the horse I have and I’m not successful.”
Explaining the moment that sparked King Edward’s jitters, Von Eckermann said the confusion was caused after the first water hump.
After getting to his feet, Von Eckermann checked on King Edward, stroking the horse before leading it away from the arena. Asked what he said in the moment, Von Eckermann replied, “What do you say?… Somewhere sorry.”
Showjumping drama! 😬
Sweden's world No. 1 Henrik von Eckermann was thrown from his horse during the final 🐴💥
#Paris2024 #Olympics pic.twitter.com/RkQa7jRMRf
— Eurosport (@eurosport) August 6, 2024
About Henrik von Eckermann
Born on May 25, 1971, Henrik von Eckermann, is a Swedish Olympic show jumping rider. So far, he has competed at three Summer Olympics that is 2012, 2016, and 2020.
His best individual Olympic placement came in the Tokyo Olympics 2020 when he won gold in the team event and placed 4th in the individual competition.
Henrik participated in the 2014 World Equestrian Games and at four European Show Jumping Championships. He won a team bronze at the 2013 Europeans held in Herning, Denmark.
His best individual result is 5th place at the 2011 European Championships. Henrik also participated in three editions of the Show Jumping World Cup finals. His biggest success came in 2017 when he placed 3rd in the finals, behind McLain Ward and Romain Duguet.
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