Phoenix from the Ashes: An Advocacy for an International Consensus for Return To Play for Athletes with Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators.

Abstract

This viewpoint discusses disparities in return-to-play (RTP) policies for athletes with implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs), highlighted by the case of professional football (soccer) player Christian Eriksen. It argues for an international consensus based on shared decision-making to harmonize national policies, balancing athlete autonomy and safety. Current RTP policies vary significantly across countries, creating inconsistencies that impact athletes' careers. Given emerging evidence on the safety of sports participation for athletes with ICDs, the application of an international standardized approach based on shared decision-making is proposed that prioritizes athlete safety without neglecting individual responsibility.