Markus Eisenbichler, one of Germany's leading ski jumpers, has announced his retirement from competitive skiing, culminating his career at the World Cup final in Planica, Slovenia, taking place from March 28 to 30, 2025. The announcement was made on March 12, 2025, through his Instagram channel, where he shared his heartfelt decision with fans. Eisenbichler, 33, stated, "I will end my sports career after Planica. It hasn’t been easy for me to arrive at this decision, but my gut feeling tells me it’s the right way." His last competitive effort will be held at the venue where he can trace back his first World Cup win from 2019, making the location exceptionally significant for him.
Eisenbichler's tenure as one of Germany's most successful ski jumpers has been marked by numerous accolades. He has been crowned world champion six times and participated extensively on the World Cup circuit since his debut during the 2011/12 season at the young age of 20. Notably, he won gold at the 2019 World Championships held in Seefeld, Austria, marking one of the apexes of his career.
Over the years, he has accumulated additional victories and medals, including five World Championship gold medals as part of the team, and won bronze with the German squad at the 2022 Winter Olympics held in Beijing. Eisenbichler's historic flight of 248 meters at the Planica facility remains the German ski flying record, showcasing his remarkable talent. During the recent season, he experienced significant challenges, including knee problems, preventing him from participating in any World Cup events the previous winter and leading to him missing the prestigious Four Hills Tournament for the first time since 2012.
Reflecting on his career, Eisenbichler said, "Ski jumping has been my life — filled with ups and downs, with emotions difficult to express. I have celebrated incredible successes: world championship titles, World Cup victories, medals - achievements I could only dream of as a child." His gratitude for the experiences and triumphs achieved throughout his career was palpable as he prepares to transition to new challenges after his retirement.
Horst Hüttel, the sporting director of the German Ski Association (DSV), praised Eisenbichler as "one of the great ski jumpers," emphasizing his legacy within the sport. He has been described as someone who sought open dialogue and was known for his straightforwardness, making him well-liked among fans and colleagues alike. The DSV expressed their appreciation for his dedication and energy over the years.
Eisenbichler expressed hope of remaining connected to the sport post-retirement, considering options including coaching. He explained, "I have lived my dream, and now I look forward to what lies ahead: new challenges, new experiences, and finally time for things I have previously put on hold."
For fans and sports analysts, the anticipation surrounding his farewell performance at Planica is palpable. Eisenbichler aims to give his all, stating, "I will enjoy the Raw Air Tour and the last World Cup stops to the fullest and will push myself to the limit." He is expected to compete in upcoming World Cup events at Holmenkollen, Oslo, and Vikersund prior to his grand farewell finale.
Among his highlights, Eisenbichler's near-win at the 2019 Four Hills Tournament, where he secured second place behind Japan's Ryoyu Kobayashi, contributed to solidifying his status as one of Germany's best ski jumpers. Throughout his career, he has achieved numerous personal records and redefined the boundaries of the sport.
At his final appearances, fans and fellow competitors alike are expected to pay homage to Eisenbichler's contribution to ski jumping, celebrating his talent and resilience through both triumphs and setbacks. His departure from the sport will mark the end of an era, and for many, it will be bittersweet.
The upcoming World Cup final in Planica promises to be not just the conclusion of Eisenbichler's career but also a celebration of his enduring legacy as one of the most accomplished figures in the history of German ski jumping.