The Digest | New Jersey Magazine
Issue link: https://magazines.vuenj.com/i/1513959
the national flag rise up and hear the national anthem start playing, it's an awesome feeling." Of course, being one of the best goalies in the history of hockey isn't enough to guarantee a win. "ere are highs and lows in sports, and that's just part of it. If you want to have a long career it's never going to be a straight line so you just flow with it and try to use those low moments as fuel." In 2020 and at 38 years old, Lundqvist, ready to embark on a new adventure, signed a contract with the Washington Capitals. Unfortunately, he also confronted one of the biggest challenges of his life. In late 2020, he was diagnosed with pericarditis—inflammation around the heart—an ailment that required immediate surgery, and eventually ended his hockey career. "Eight months before my heart surgery I began to focus on the personal side of my mental health and I focused a lot on finding happiness…and it really prepared me for the surgery. It wasn't easy but I was in a good place to be able to handle it. I've always found it helpful to have an outside perspective… sometimes you're sitting on the answers you're looking for and need someone to help you find them and open up the right doors." Lundqvist is now open to letting life guide him where he's meant to go. "Balance is everything and that's when I'm the most happy. When you're an athlete you're locked in, there's no leisurely travel, no time off, the game dictates your schedule. Now, for the first time since I was 16, I'm the boss of my own time and I'm still trying to find that balance but it's a great feeling." Expanding his interests off the ice, Lunqdvist works with MSG Network and TNT as a TV analyst during NHL seasons. Lundqvist is also continuing his charity work and has kept busy with a myriad of side projects, including hosting his 30 Club podcast alongside longtime friend, Jay Liddell. Among his many guests, his conversation with Alex Rodriguez sparked a conversation about diversity in business. When asked about diversity in the NHL in regards to recruitment, development, and accessibility, Lundqvist says, "I think when you look at the game itself, the skill, speed and entertainment side of the game is great. e league also has VUE ON | HENRIK LUNDQVIST 64 VUENJ.COM