Lisa Aitken’s Comeback From Career-Threatening Injury to Olympic Dreams

Scottish squash star Lisa Aitken has endured a long, arduous journey back to the court after suffering a career-threatening knee injury in 2022. The 34-year-old, who ruptured both her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and medial collateral ligament (MCL), as well as tearing her meniscus, has undergone three surgeries and countless hours of rehabilitation. Almost two years later, Aitken is set to make her comeback at the Qatar Classic next week.

At the height of her career, Aitken had reached a world ranking of 21 before the devastating injury halted her progress. The physical and mental toll was immense, with Aitken grappling with the loss of her athletic identity and uncertainty over her future.

“At one point, I wondered if I would walk normally again, let alone return to elite sport,” Aitken shared with *BBC Sport Scotland*. Her goals initially shifted from competing at the highest level to simply regaining her mobility and contemplating motherhood. But the determination ingrained in athletes like Aitken quickly reignited her desire to return to the squash circuit.

As she prepares to step back on the court, Aitken is realistic yet hopeful. She is giving herself six to eight months to determine if she can still compete at the level she desires. Her aspirations include reclaiming her position as Scotland’s number one and potentially competing in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, where squash will be included for the first time.

Aitken also revealed that she has put her dream of becoming a mother on hold while she chases her Olympic ambitions. “It would be crazy not to give the Olympics a shot,” she said. “If it’s achievable, then of course, I’ll consider freezing my eggs and saving motherhood for later.”

With unused “years in the bank” from previous injuries and illnesses, Aitken is determined to make the most of this second chance at her career. Whether she achieves Olympic glory or starts a family, Aitken knows she’s leaving no stone unturned in her pursuit of greatness.