Mala Grohs, Bayern Women’s goalkeeper, diagnosed with cancer. She is ruled out for an indefinite time period.
Mala Grohs has been diagnosed with cancer, the Frauen Bundesliga club said on Saturday.
The club said in a statement that the 23-year-old has been “diagnosed with a malignant tumour.” Bayern’s sporting director, Max Eberl, added that Grohs “is now facing her toughest battle, and we stand by her side, wishing her the strength she needs and all the best.”
Bayern have also extended Grohs’ contract until June 2026. “By extending her contract, we hope to offer some support so she can focus on her recovery. And consequently let her know Bayern will always be her home,” said Eberl. “She is a key player, a highly respected teammate. A role model for the fans, and a figure in our club.”
Grohs, whose full name is Maria Luisa, made her debut for Bayern in January 2021, added in the statement. “The illness is a challenge that I never thought I would have to overcome. I am sure that with the support I am receiving from all sides. I will recover and return to being completely healthy.”
Grohs moved from Bochum to Bayern’s reserve team in 2019, and in 2022 he was selected as the team’s first-choice keeper. She has participated in 81 games for the senior team, taking home three German titles and a German Super Cup. Bayern defeated Vålerenga 3-0 at home on Tuesday in the Women’s Champions League, and Grohs kept a clean sheet.