Markus Eisenbichler, the celebrated six-time ski jumping world champion, has announced his retirement from competitive skiing, bringing to close a distinguished career marked by significant achievements and unforgettable moments.
On March 12, 2025, Eisenbichler, 33, shared the news via his Instagram channel, stating, "My gut feeling tells me: This is the right time. It feels good." This announcement, which took many by surprise, sets the stage for his final competition at the World Cup final scheduled from March 28 to March 30, 2025, in Planica, Slovenia, a site of personal significance as it witnessed his first World Cup victory back in 2019.
Reflecting on his career, Eisenbichler expressed deep emotions, stating, "Ski jumping was my life - with ups and downs, with emotions difficult to put to words." His career has been characterized by remarkable highs, including his gold medal wins at the 2019 World Championships held in Seefeld, Austria, as well as multiple successes within the team events. Also, he earned Olympic bronze with the team at the Beijing 2022 Games, solidifying his status as one of Germany's most successful ski jumpers.
His retirement follows a challenging phase where he struggled with performance issues, having missed the World Championship earlier due to these setbacks. Eisenbichler missed out on competing during the previous season due to knee problems and was sidelined from the Four Hills Tournament for the first time since 2012.
DSV Sports Director Horst Hüttel praised Eisenbichler, stating, "With Markus Eisenbichler, one of the great ski jumpers leaves the World Cup stage." He noted the athlete's contributions to the sport, particularly highlighting his six world titles, which make him the most successful German ski jumper historically. Hüttel expressed gratitude for Eisenbichler's years of dedication, enthusiasm, and the highs he brought to the sport.
Eisenbichler plans to finish his career on high notes, competing first at the Raw-Air Tour, beginning on March 13, 2025, across various venues including Oslo and Vikersund, before heading to his final appearance at Planica. He enthused, "I want to give it my all, enjoy the Raw Air Tour and the last World Cup stops to the fullest and take everything I can out of it." This determination to finish strong emphasizes his passion for the sport, which he described as living his dream.
Looking forward, Eisenbichler is also contemplating future opportunities, including the possibility of becoming a coach, confirming his loyalty to the sport even after his active career ends. He remarked, "I have lived my dream and am infinitely grateful. But I am also looking forward to what is to come: new challenges, new experiences, and finally time for things I have not had enough time for."
Eisenbichler's legacy is firmly entrenched not just in the records he holds but also through his steadfast presence within the ski jumping community. His candid nature, paired with his determination, made him beloved among fans and fellow athletes alike. The sport will undoubtedly feel the absence of his remarkable presence, but his influence will continue to inspire new generations of ski jumpers.
Planica awaits as the stage for both celebration and farewell, where fans and fellow athletes will gather to honor Eisenbichler's illustrious career, hoping to send him off with the final flourish he truly deserves.