Tess Lieder bids farewell to national team

Tess Lieder helped the national team of Netherlands to change gear in their speed-driven handball. In an interview with Algemeen Dagblad, the world champion of 2019 announces the end of her international career.

Lieder (previously Wester) was in first row to experience the rise of the orange team to medal level. Netherlands reached the world cup final in 2015, won another three medals in euro and world championships and reigned supreme with the gold in Japan 2019.

All tournaments had Lieder in a key position between the posts. When the 30 year-old returned to the field after becoming a parent, she made herself available to the national team. But something was anew, other goalkeepers as Yara ten Holte and Rinka Duijndam were ahead.

– After the World Cup in December, the fire no longer burns as it always did. Taking everything into account, I have made the difficult decision to finally close this chapter by ending my international career, says Lieder to AD.

All in all, Lieder´s performance account for much more in the progress of the national team then 152 games. Netherlands prepare for the Olympic Games – without the 30-year-old on site.

– Naturally, I wish the Dutch handball team much success in the future. I will of course follow them from the sidelines, says Lieder to the newspaper.

Borussia Dortmund still provide match opportunities for Lieder, with a contract that lasts over next season.

Source: Handbal­sters verder zonder boegbeeld: keepster Tess Lieder (30) mist het heilige vuur en stopt bij Oranje