"Ludwigsburg's Leading Athlete Experiences Disappointment"
In a surprising turn of events, Karolina Kudlacz-Gloc, one of Germany's top handball players, finds herself in a career crossroads following the financial collapse of her current club, HB Ludwigsburg.
Previously known as SG BBM Bietigheim, HB Ludwigsburg is the club that Kudlacz-Gloc joined after the insolvency of her former club, HC Leipzig, in 2017. The financial difficulties of HB Ludwigsburg, which surfaced in mid-2025, have led to the immediate release of all players from their contracts, including Kudlacz-Gloc.
The league has left the door open for the possible participation of HB Ludwigsburg in the new Bundesliga season, but has announced another license review. More clarity on the future of the club and its players is expected next week.
Kudlacz-Gloc, who has won a total of 15 titles (7 championships and 8 cup titles) in her handball career, had planned to play one last season in Ludwigsburg and retire. However, the insolvency application has derailed her plans.
The financial collapse has not only affected individual players but has also triggered severe criticism within the German women's handball league, raising doubts about the integrity of Ludwigsburg’s recent championship and casting uncertainty on the league's competitive landscape overall.
Due to the financial difficulties, Kudlacz-Gloc, like her teammates, must now quickly decide whether to stay in Ludwigsburg for lower wages, switch teams, or retire. Captain Xenia Smits is reportedly in talks with a top international club.
Kudlacz-Gloc expresses sadness over the financial difficulties of HB Ludwigsburg. "I've grown to love this club and this city," she said. "But my career comes first, and I need to make the best decision for my future."
As Kudlacz-Gloc weighs her options, the German handball community watches with bated breath. The future of one of Germany's greatest handball players hangs in the balance, and the ripple effects of HB Ludwigsburg's financial collapse continue to be felt throughout the league.
[1] German Handball League Official Statement [2] Interview with Karolina Kudlacz-Gloc, Handball Magazine, September 2025
- Given the current financial crisis at HB Ludwigsburg, Karolina Kudlacz-Gloc might consider a shift from handball to another sport like football, aiming to secure a spot in the Champions League or any other European leagues.
- In the midst of uncertainty due to HB Ludwigsburg's financial collapse, speculations arise whether Karolina Kudlacz-Gloc, with her illustrious handball career, might potentially embrace a role as a sportscaster or analyst in either football or Champions League programs.
