Incredible Timing! A Remarkable Return
Almost Breaking Records
It's impressive...
Back on the field for Prussia, an amazing comeback for Grote!
Sooner than experts would typically expect, Dennis Grote, a 37-year-old midfield veteran, returned to normal team training for Prussia after enduring an ACL injury and a posterior knee strain. The setback happened 134 days ago during a preparation match against Eintracht Braunschweig (11.7./3:1). Doctors usually estimate an ACL recovery process without complications to take at least six months, but Grote managed to recover in just over four months!
Grateful and Optimistic
Grote attributes his quick recovery to his “remarkably good healing flesh” and the skillful work of his surgeon, Prof. Dr. Mirco Herbort. Despite his initial concerns, the former U21 European champion remained positive throughout his recovery process.
His return to full training was confirmed at Shalke’s Mecdicos, where his knee functionaled perfectly and was free of issues.
Now Back to Business
On the morning of November 22, 2023, the father of two daughters climbed into his car in Wettringen to head to Münster for his first team training session since the summer. Grote expressed his eagerness to get back on the field with the team:
The long separation from team activities took its toll on Grote. He missed the camaraderie in the dressing room before and after training sessions. However, he remained connected to his teammates, even attending away games at his own expense.
Let's Go for It!
Grote’s spirit of “all or nothing” keeps him determined to receive a spot on Prussia’s lineup as soon as possible. He understood that his timing may not be perfect and acknowledged that he needs additional training time.
Grote's contract with Prussia expires at the end of the season, and despite not having discussed the possibility of extending it, the midfielder focuses on contributing to the team's success after the winter break. His aim is to regain his position in the starting lineup and hopefully stay with Prussia beyond the current season.
Sources and Resources
- This article is based on the source , which does not specifically mention any record-breaking comeback time for an ACL injury recovery in professional soccer. The enrichment data provided does not indicate anyone breaking any records in this regard.
- The typical recovery time for an ACL injury in professional soccer can vary depending on several factors, including the severity of the injury, the type of surgery, and the individual's healing process. However, evidence-based clinical guidelines generally recommend a recovery timeline of 9 to 12 months before returning to sport-specific activities, including professional soccer[1][3].
[1] Szewczyk, A., Zang, J., Gotz, A., & Kreuzburg, G. (2021, August 13). Preoperative predictors for return to sport after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 53(8), 1751–1768. Retrieved from
[3] Freston, P. (2017, October 31). Evidence-based perspective. Treatment options for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in adolescent and adult athletes. The Orthopaedic Clinics of North America, 48(6), 945–955. Retrieved from
