Christian Ehrhoff took part in the Winter Olympics four times. The Olympic silver medal in Pyeongchang is his career highlight. In the interview he talks about the solidarity in the German team and the ice hockey euphoria in Germany after the surprise success in Pyeongchang 2018.
Christian, which of your Olympic teammates do you have the most contact with?
Christian Ehrhoff: I've seen Moritz Müller a few times, I only saw Marcus Kink recently, and I'm also in contact with Marcel Noebels more often.
Take us back to Pyeongchang 2018. How were your fourth Winter Olympics for you?
Christian Ehrhoff: For me, the 2018 Olympics was the big goal. I was lucky enough to have been to three Olympic Games before that. Unfortunately we didn't manage to qualify for Sochi in 2014. We have already fought our way through a very difficult qualification in Latvia, where we worked hard to earn our ticket to Pyeongchang. I was so happy that I could experience the Olympics again. In Pyeongchang it was an advantage for us to start the tournament later. So we were able to soak up the special Olympic flair, visit the German house, experience other competitions and cheer on other athletes from Team Germany. We saw some medals and inspiring performances there. At the end of the Olympics, everyone who was still in Pyeongchang came to our games and supported us. That brought a very special spirit.
How did you get into the ice hockey tournament?
Christian Ehrhoff: We already had high hopes. As an athlete, you don't fly to the Olympics for fun, we definitely wanted to achieve something - even if we were of course outsiders. We were really good as a team: the core of the team had known each other for many years, and the Olympic newcomers brought a special motivation to the team. Marco Sturm also managed to make it clear to each of us what role he had - and everyone accepted this role. We were all behind the team 100 percent.
What was your most emotional moment?
Christian Ehrhoff: That was the semi-final victory against Canada, because we knew then: "We have a medal." And of course the award ceremony too - it is an incredibly proud moment when you get the medal around your neck. A special moment for me personally was being the flag bearer at the closing ceremony. That is the greatest honor I have ever received in my life as an athlete. It made me doubly proud, especially because the German team was so special and it was one of the most successful Winter Olympics for Germany. That was the perfect end to these Olympic Games.
Back in Germany, the ice hockey euphoria was great...
Christian Ehrhoff: We already noticed the enthusiasm in Pyeongchang. But what we experienced in Germany when we returned was unbelievable. People have been telling me for months where they watched the final at 5 a.m. on a Sunday morning and with whom - even though they had never really followed ice hockey before. That also filled you with pride.
How important is the Olympics in your entire career?
Christian Ehrhoff: For me personally, the Olympic medal is the greatest thing I have ever won. For us Europeans, the Olympic Games are something special. Most of us have been excited about the Olympics since we were children. I still remember 1992, the penalty shootout against Canada, which Germany narrowly lost. I really wanted to go to the Olympics - and the fact that I am part of the team that is making history is fantastic.
What does an Olympic medal actually taste like?
Christian Ehrhoff: Good question, did I even bite into it that often? I would say a mix of beer and champagne.
Let's look ahead to the 2022 Winter Olympics: What do you think the team can achieve?
Christian Ehrhoff: I think getting into the top eight would be a great achievement. It won't be easy for Germany, but we have now established ourselves in the top eight and are currently fifth in the world rankings. It would be nice if we could confirm this at the Olympics, where everyone has their best team.
Do you have any advice for the boys?
Christian Ehrhoff: Enjoy the moment! The Olympics are something special. It will take place in 2022 under special circumstances. It might not be like my four Olympic Games, I'm aware of that. But the boys should still try to enjoy the moment - because for an athlete it's a dream come true.
Thanks for the conversation, Christian!