Thomas Arnoldsen, the Danish national handball team playmaker, is taking an indefinite break from the sport as he begins medication for ADHD. The 23-year-old, who plays for Aalborg Håndbold, was diagnosed with the condition in the fall of 2023.

Aalborg Håndbold announced Arnoldsen’s situation on their website, explaining that he is currently unable to train or play due to the medication’s initial effects. This marks the third time Arnoldsen has stepped away from the sport.

Arnoldsen initially joined Aalborg Håndbold in the summer of 2023 but was soon sidelined due to physical and mental exhaustion. During the subsequent six months, he underwent examinations and received his ADHD diagnosis, along with tools to manage the condition.

Despite initial improvements that allowed him to return to handball, Arnoldsen reports that his symptoms gradually worsened again this season. He began medication this spring and was absent from matches between March 8 and the end of April, with the stated reason being the need for physical and mental rest.

Aalborg Håndbold’s director, Jan Larsen, acknowledged the frustrating situation for Arnoldsen but emphasized the club’s support. The club is providing comprehensive medical assistance and external expertise, including performance psychological consultant Martin Langagergaard, to help Arnoldsen manage his condition and hopefully return to the court.

Arnoldsen remains optimistic, viewing this period as a necessary step forward. There is currently no set timeframe for his return to handball.