Markus Eisenbichler, one of Germany's most celebrated ski jumpers, has publicly announced his retirement from the sport, with plans to conclude his illustrious career during the World Cup final scheduled to take place from March 28 to March 30, 2025, at Planica, Slovenia. This decision was shared by the 33-year-old athlete on March 12, 2025, through his Instagram channel, marking the end of a significant chapter not only for himself but for the sport of ski jumping.
Eisenbichler’s decision was not made lightly; he reflected on his career over the past several months. He expressed, “Skispringen war mein Leben – mit Höhen und Tiefen, mit Emotionen, die kaum in Worte zu fassen sind. Ich habe meinen Traum gelebt und bin unendlich dankbar” (Ski jumping was my life – with highs and lows, emotions difficult to express. I lived my dream and am endlessly grateful). These poignant words encapsulate the essence of his remarkable career, filled with soaring victories and inevitable challenges.
Throughout his tenure, Eisenbichler amassed an impressive tally of achievements, becoming one of the most successful athletes in German ski jumping history. He is celebrated for winning six World Championship titles, including gold in the individual competition at the 2019 World Championships held in Seefeld, Austria, as well as five gold medals as part of team events. Another significant personal achievement was securing Olympic bronze with the German men's team at the 2022 Games held in Beijing.
Yet, like many sports stars, Eisenbichler faced his share of struggles. Over recent years, performance issues saw him temporarily removed from the World Cup cadre, and he missed the World Championships due to these challenges. He recounted his recent hardships, saying, “Mein Bauchgefühl sagt mir: Es ist der richtige Zeitpunkt. Es fühlt sich gut an” (My gut feeling tells me: Now is the right time. It feels good). This statement highlights not just his decision for retirement but also the introspection he underwent facing difficult moments.
Eisenbichler debuted on the World Cup stage during the 2011/12 season, quickly rising to prominence as a key member of the DSV (German Ski Federation). His remarkable achievements on the ski jumping circuit include triumphing at the Four Hills Tournament, and he is known for setting the German distance record of 248 meters, which remains unbroken. His prowess on ski flying hills positioned him as one of Germany's leading figures, garnering admiration among fans and fellow athletes alike.
Despite the highs, Eisenbichler has encountered lows—such as when he faced knee problems and missed several competitions, including the prestigious Four Hills Tournament for the first time since 2012. These challenges demonstrated the fickle nature of athletic performance, as was evident when he expressed frustration with his condition during his appearances.
Horst Hüttel, the DSV sport director, remarked, “Mit Markus Eisenbichler verlässt einer der ganz großen Skispringer die Weltcup-Bühne” (With Markus Eisenbichler, one of the great ski jumpers is leaving the World Cup stage). Hüttel's appreciation for Eisenbichler's contributions to the sport solidifies the athlete's status among the elite of ski jumpers. There are hopes for Eisenbichler to remain within the skiing community, with mentions of potential roles as a coach or mentor in the future.
The upcoming World Cup final at Planica will not only serve as Eisenbichler's last competition but also be held at the very venue where he experienced some of his greatest triumphs, including his first World Cup victory. “Hier werde ich mein letztes Gefühl auf der großen Bühne haben,” Eisenbichler stated, emphasizing the sentiment tied to his farewell at Planica, where his ski jumping saga began.
Markus Eisenbichler remains, without question, a remarkable athlete who delivered more than ten years of outstanding performances. The community of ski jumping will miss his enthusiasm and passion but also celebrates the legacy he leaves behind as he moves onto new challenges and experiences. Eisenbichler's career may draw to a close, but the echoes of his success and the inspiration he brought to this sport will linger on long after he hangs up his skis.