Germany’s ski jumping star, Markus Eisenbichler, announced his retirement from professional sports on March 12, 2025, after 20 remarkable years. The six-time world champion, often fondly referred to as "Eisei," reflected on his emotional decision during a press release from the German Ski Federation (DSV) and expressed his fulfillment from his sports career.
"Skispringen war mein Leben – mit Höhen und Tiefen, mit Emotionen, die kaum in Worte zu fassen sind. Ich durfte unglaubliche Erfolge feiern: Weltmeistertitel, Weltcup-Siege, Medaillen - Erfolge, von denen ich als Kind nur träumen konnte. Ich habe meinen Traum gelebt und bin unendlich dankbar. Aber ich freue mich auch auf das, was kommt: neue Herausforderungen, neue Erlebnisse und endlich Zeit für Dinge, die bisher etwas zu kurz gekommen sind," Eisenbichler shared, highlighting his bittersweet emotions about stepping away from the sport he loved.
Eisenbichler debuted at the World Cup during the 2011/12 season and quickly became known as one of Germany's most reliable ski jumpers. He achieved significant milestones, including winning gold at the individual competition at the World Championships in Seefeld, Austria, back in 2019, where he also secured team gold medals. His achievements extend to the Olympic Games, where he earned bronze alongside his team at the Beijing Games in 2022.
An illustrious career saw Eisenbichler standing atop the podium 55 times across various competitions. He is celebrated for breaking records, including setting the German distance record of 248 meters at the Planica ski flying hill, where he will also end his career during the World Cup finals scheduled from March 28 to 30, 2025.
Despite his illustrious achievements, the previous seasons proved challenging for the 33-year-old athlete. Eisenbichler encountered serious knee problems, which limited his participation and led him to miss multiple competitive events, including the Four Hills Tournament for the first time since 2012 and the World Championships held recently in Trondheim.
Eisenbichler's struggles did not dampen his spirit entirely. Earlier this winter, he made efforts to return to the center stage, finishing eighth at the competition held at Ruka, which was seen as promising. Unfortunately, subsequent results were disappointing—he finished 44th and 47th at other World Cup events, which led to his removal from the World Cup team.
Reflecting on his substantial contributions to ski jumping, Horst Hüttel, the DSV Sports Director, remarked, "Mit Markus Eisenbichler verlässt einer der ganz großen Skispringer die Weltcup-Bühne. Der DSV ist Markus für seine vielen Jahre an Leidenschaft, an Energie, aber natürlich auch an vielen, vielen Erfolgen sehr dankbar." This appreciation underlines the impact Eisenbichler had not only as an athlete but also as part of the community, where he was well-loved by fans and fellow ski jumpers alike.
Looking forward, Eisenbichler has not ruled out staying connected to the sport he cherishes; there is talk of training roles and mentorship. "Ich habe immer nach neuen Herausforderungen gesucht, und ich freue mich auch auf das, was kommt. Neue Erlebnisse werden jetzt eine große Rolle spielen," he added about his future plans.
For the time being, Eisenbichler is set to compete one more time as he joins the German team for the upcoming Raw-Air Tour, which starts this Thursday at Holmenkollen, Oslo. His outlook is optimistic as he intends to make the most out of these final experiences on the ski slopes. "Es wird emotional, aber es fühlt sich richtig an, jetzt aufzuhören," he stated with resolve.
Markus Eisenbichler finishes his career at Planica, the venue of his first individual World Cup victory and home to some of the sport’s most prestigious moments. He has left behind memories etched forever, not just as Germany’s most decorated ski jumper but more as someone who understood the highs and lows of the sport he adored.