Markus Eisenbichler, the most successful ski jumper in German history, announced his retirement from professional sport on March 12, 2025, citing it as the right time to end his illustrious career. Eisenbichler, 33, has spent over two decades as part of the German Ski Association (DSV) and will conclude his competitive career at the World Cup final scheduled from March 28 to March 30, 2025, in Planica, Slovenia.
Throughout his career, Eisenbichler has achieved phenomenal success, most prominently earning six World Championship titles, which positions him as Germany’s top ski jumper of all time. His accolades include gold medals won both individually at the 2019 World Championships held in Seefeld, and multiple team competitions across different years, solidifying his status as one of the sport's greats.
“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,” declared Eisenbichler, reflecting on the intense emotions tied to his sport. His retirement decision has come after wresting with injury and performance-related challenges over recent years, including being dropped from the national team.
After his first World Cup season debut during 2011/12, Eisenbichler blossomed as one of Germany's key athletes. His golden moment arrived at the 2019 World Championships when he unexpectedly secured gold on the large hill without having won any prior World Cup events individually. Alongside his individual accolades, he has also won team gold at the World Championships multiple times and was part of the German squad receiving bronze at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing.
Despite these successes, recent performance hurdles plagued his career, including not qualifying for the World Championships held earlier this year and disappointment during the Four Hills Tournament. He shared, "Wenn man in einem Tal steckt, muss man lächeln und winken und schauen, dass man wieder besser wird" during moments of introspection about his fluctuated form, enhancing the persona of the athlete known for his openness.
Horst Hüttel, the DSV Sport Director, praised Eisenbichler’s contributions by stating, “Wir sind Markus sehr dankbar für seine vielen Jahre an Leidenschaft, Energie und natürlich auch vielen Erfolgen.” His comments acknowledged the emotional weight of Eisenbichler’s departure from active competition.
Reflecting on his future, Eisenbichler seems poised to remain involved with the sport, with rumors of coaching potential swirling around his name as Hüttel commented, “Vielleicht gehen unsere Wege auf der Trainerseite bald gemeinsam weiter. Das würde mich sehr freuen.” This hints at the possibility of Eisenbichler stepping back from competitive jumps, yet still being present within the ski jumping community.
He will undoubtedly take the spotlight once again at the Planica World Cup final, where he rose to fame by achieving his first World Cup victory and establishing the German ski flying record at 248 meters. The upcoming event is anticipated to be incredibly emotional as Eisenbichler reflects on not only the end of his jumps but also the memories of triumph and struggle throughout his professional career.
“Es wird emotional,” he noted, which resonates with fans and fellow athletes alike who have witnessed his exhilarating performances over the years. His farewell at Planica will not only mark the close of one chapter but also transition him to new adventures beyond competitive jumping.
While the world of ski jumping bids farewell to one of its giants, Eisenbichler's legacy is firmly cemented within his six World Championship titles, numerous podium finishes, and the fervor he inspired among spectators and teammates alike. His career is celebrated not just for the wins, but for the passion he embodied and shared during his time on the slopes. After his final jumps, Markus Eisenbichler will be remembered not only as a champion but also as someone who lived his dream fully, ready to embrace future opportunities with open arms.