ATS
Andres Ambühl (41) scratched the ice in Switzerland for the last time in his career Thursday in Kloten. The Grison and its teammates bowed 2-1 against Sweden.
No one has put on the national jersey more often than Ambühl, which has 341 selections. He also holds the record of points with Switzerland (152) and participated in 19 editions from the Worlds, an unrivaled brand on the planet.
And yet, fans are not tired by “Büehli”, which was ovationed at length after the meeting, just like before a small ceremony in his honor. Ambühl notably received a huge bottle of wine and a jersey with his usual number 10. His wife and two daughters aged 5 and 3 were present and warmly entwined the star of the evening.
An “almost embarrassing” ovation
The Grison appreciated the tributes, but he wanted to put into perspective, true to his customary modesty. “It is I who should say thank you, not the opposite,” he said. “Being as appreciated is not really normal. It’s very special, ”continued the striker.
The ovation of several minutes after the match was “almost embarrassing” for him. “I hoped that it would stop after a minute,” he slipped with a little embarrassed smile.
His career will continue at least for another two games in Brno, Saturday against Finland and Sunday against Czeching during Euro Hockey Tour. But in the process, Ambühl has every chance of playing a 20th world championship before putting off her skates. Even if he does not make a prognosis, coach Patrick Fischer is counting on the veteran. “His chances are good,” he said to say.
“Always the same”
Against Sweden, the Swiss also wanted to win for Ambühl. But despite a good performance in the face of a quality opponent, the victory did not come. Patrick Fischer did not make a drama. “We played a little with the characteristics of Büehli, with a lot of commitment, passion and speed,” said the coach.
He reserved some laudatory sentences for his captain. “He’s still the same. He gives everything to each training, he is alert and has fun playing. Its versatility is a great asset. ” All this suggests that the career of “Büehli” will experience a final chapter in the coming weeks.
