Markus Eisenbichler, one of Germany's most celebrated ski jumpers, has announced his retirement from the sport following the World Cup final at Planica scheduled for March 28 to March 30, 2025. The 33-year-old skiers expressed his decision through an Instagram video, sharing the emotional weight of his announcement. He noted, "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."
Eisenbichler's career has been nothing short of spectacular. He is regarded as the most successful German ski jumper, boasting six World Championship titles and earning Olympic bronze with the team at the 2022 Beijing Games. His ski jumping career began at the World Cup level during the 2011/12 season and has included numerous highs, such as his first World Cup victory at Planica, where he also set the German distance record of 248 meters.
Despite his illustrious career, recent years have been challenging for Eisenbichler. He experienced significant setbacks, including being dropped from the national team and missing the World Championships due to performance issues. "Wenn man in einem Tal steckt, muss man lächeln und winken und schauen, dass man wieder besser wird," he reflected, indicating the efforts he undertook to return to form.
This season has seen Eisenbichler showing flashes of his former self, including finishing eighth at Ruka after starting slow with 24th and 32nd places at the season's opener in Lillehammer. Yet, he struggled to maintain consistency, culminating in his decision to step back from competitive jumping.
DSV Sports Director Horst Hüttel praised Eisenbichler's contributions, stating, "Mit Markus Eisenbichler verlässt einer der ganz großen Skispringer die Weltcup-Bühne. Der Deutsche Skiverband ist Markus für seine vielen Jahre an Leidenschaft, an Energie, aber natürlich auch an vielen, vielen Erfolgen sehr dankbar." Hüttel mentioned the possibility of Eisenbichler returning to the sport as a coach, indicating strong support from the ski jumping community for his future endeavours.
Eisenbichler’s decision to retire aligns with his reflections on the sport, where he has emphasized gratitude for the experiences and challenges he has faced. "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," he stated, highlighting his enthusiasm for facing new challenges beyond ski jumping.
With the Planica World Cup final approaching, Eisenbichler aims for one last show on the world stage. This location holds special significance, marking both his first World Cup victory and the site of his record-setting jump. His farewell marks the end of an era not only for him but also for German ski jumping, as he has truly embodied the sport through his achievements and popularity.
Fans and colleagues alike look forward to Eisenbichler’s final performance, which he promises will be emotional. Though he steps away from competition, the legacy of Markus Eisenbichler will inspire future generations of ski jumpers, ensuring his passion for the sport continues long after his departure from the competitive arena.