"Ludwigsburg's leading player disheartened"
In the wake of HB Ludwigsburg's financial collapse and insolvency filing in 2025, Karolina Kudlacz-Gloc's future in handball remains undecided. The 40-year-old Polish back player, who has had a storied career with seven German championships, eight cup titles, and a 2022 EHF European League victory, had hoped to make a comeback this season. However, the club's bankruptcy has left her in a state of uncertainty.
Kudlacz-Gloc, a fan favourite at her club for years, has received multiple offers from other clubs following Ludwigsburg's insolvency. Yet, she has so far rejected them, stating she is mentally not ready to continue playing immediately[1][2]. The financial collapse has forced her into a difficult personal and professional position after a long and successful career.
Despite the uncertainty, Kudlacz-Gloc emphasized that she still believes she has much to offer the handball world[1][2][3]. This sentiment is not surprising, given her background as an educated psychologist who has dealt with club financial instability before—her contract with HC Leipzig was similarly affected by licensing and financial issues in 2017[3].
With Ludwigsburg’s bankruptcy involving approximately €2 million in debt, the club is attempting to downscale operations but will likely not retain many top players, including Kudlacz-Gloc[5]. The league has left the door open for HB Ludwigsburg to start in the new Bundesliga season, but has announced another license review. More clarity about the new season is expected next week.
Meanwhile, captain Xenia Smits is reportedly in negotiations with a top international club[4]. As for Kudlacz-Gloc, she is currently facing the decision to stay in Ludwigsburg for lower wages, switch teams, or retire. She is taking time before making a final decision[1][2][3][5].
References:
- Handball-Planet
- Sport1
- SZ
- Sport1
- SZ
Kudlacz-Gloc, being a fan favorite and a skilled handball player, has received offers from other clubs due to Ludwigsburg's insolvency. In her current situation, she is considering options such as staying with Ludwigsburg for lower wages, switching teams, or potentially retiring, as she takes some time before making a final decision. Despite the uncertainty, she still holds the belief that she has much to offer the handball world, drawing from her experiences managing financial instability in her past with HC Leipzig.
During her leisure time, Kudlacz-Gloc appreciates listening to the latest news on the radio while keeping up-to-date with the sports world, with a particular interest in football.
