Carolina Marín, the great figure of Spanish badminton and one of the most admired athletes in our country, has recently surprised fans from all over the world with a decision full of sincerity: Temporarily stay away from social networks. But far from being a simple withdrawal from the digital world, this pause is much deeper: it responds to an intimate need to take care of oneself, reflect and reconnect with oneself after a very emotionally demanding period.
A “collapse” that speaks of humanity
In an emotional video published on her Instagram profile, Carolina confessed without filters that “has collapsed”recognizing that he is not at his best. They were sincere words, almost unusual for a public figure so accustomed to showing strength and discipline in every aspect of his sporting career.
With the frankness that characterizes her, the Huelva native explained that the decision to distance herself from the networks was not impulsive, but the result of a deep reflection on how she was feeling both physically and emotionally. “I’m not at my best, I want to be happy and for that I have to find happiness in many things”he shared with his followers before temporarily saying goodbye to the notifications, comments and publications that are part of the daily lives of millions of people around the world.
© Getty ImagesThe pressure of public and private
For a high-performance athlete like Carolina Marín, public exposure has been a constant throughout her career. Since she became an Olympic champion with her gold in Rio 2016, through her multiple world and European titles, to her media presence both on and off the slopes, Marín has always lived in the spotlight.
© Getty ImagesHowever, life in the spotlight also comes with a price. Social media, channels that often allow fans to connect more closely with their idols, can also become vehicles for pressure, expectations and comments that are difficult to digest. In addition to messages of encouragement and support, Carolina has also faced constant criticism and, at times, digital harassment, a reality that can be as exhausting as physical training itself if a healthy limit is not set.
The injury that marked a before and after
This moment of digital pause is closely linked to another difficult chapter in the athlete’s life: her last injury at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. That setback—a third serious break in her knee—not only took her off the track, but forced her to face a long and painful rehabilitation, with the uncertainty of not knowing if she would be able to compete again at the highest level.
© Getty ImagesThe injury was a hard blow on a physical level, but also emotionally. Little by little, as Marín faced her recovery, she recognized that not only did she have to heal her body, but also her mind. The physical demands of elite sport are known, but the psychological pressure – the fear of never being the same again, the expectations of fans, the constant comparison with one’s own glorious past – also weighs heavily.
An act of emotional courage
Making the decision to get away from the networks is not easy for someone whose daily life has been so markedly linked to them. But the champion has chosen to prioritize her inner balance over digital immediacy. “It’s time to think about yourself, to really reflect on many things,” she stated naturally, appealing to the empathy of those who follow her and know that, behind each publication, there is a real person with their own emotions and limits.
© Getty ImagesThis pause also invites us to reflect on the impact of networks on mental health, a topic that has become a growing point of attention in recent years, particularly among athletes and public figures. When the accounts and metrics begin to outweigh real life, that is when many—like Carolina—decide to distance themselves from recover the sense of personal priority.
Take care of yourself to come back stronger
Although Marín has not set a date for his digital return, his message has been clear: it is a break to recharge his batteries, reconnect with his inner world and, above all, recover happiness in everyday life. It is not a retreat, nor a goodbye—simply a necessary respite.
The messages of support he has received so far demonstrate the love that drives his career: thousands of followers have expressed their understanding and respect for the decision, reminding him that humanity always comes before notoriety.
Beyond the networks, life goes on
Carolina Marín has shown throughout her career that strength is not only measured by titlesbut for the ability to face difficulties with authenticity. Stepping away from social media at a time of vulnerability is not a sign of weakness, but rather an act of personal courage that prioritizes mental health and comprehensive well-being.
