Markus "Eisei" Eisenbichler, one of the most renowned ski jumpers Germany has ever produced, announced on March 12, 2025, his decision to retire from ski jumping after the current season. The news came via the German Ski Association (DSV), which confirmed his final appearance would be at the World Cup final taking place from March 28 to March 30, 2025, in Planica, Slovenia.
At 33 years old, Eisenbichler has made his mark on the sport with six World Championship titles, making him the most successful German ski jumper in history. "Skispringen war mein Leben – mit Höhen und Tiefen, mit Emotionen, die kaum in Worte zu fassen sind," Eisenbichler stated, expressing the emotional complexity of his career. That translates to "Ski jumping has been my life – with ups and downs, with emotions hard to put to words." He accompanied his announcement with reflections on his career, stating, "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," which translates to "I have lived my dream and am infinitely grateful. But I also look forward to what is to come: new challenges, new experiences, and finally time for things I have missed out on."
Eisenbichler debuted on the World Cup circuit during the 2011/12 season and quickly established himself as a key member of the German team. He achieved his first individual World Cup victory on the Planica ski flying hill, where he also set the German distance record with 248 meters, set back in 2017. His major achievements include winning gold medals at the World Championships, particularly notable were his performances during the 2019 Nordic Ski World Championships held in Seefeld, Austria, where he won three golds, including one for the team event. Eisenbichler also captured Olympic bronze with the team during the Beijing 2022 Olympic Games.
Despite his illustrious career, recent years have been challenging for Eisenbichler. He faced difficulties in performance and injuries, including knee issues, which hindered his ability to compete at the level expected of him. Last season, he was dropped from the World Cup team and even competed in the less prestigious Continental Cup. "When you are stuck in a valley, you have to smile and wave and try to get back to form," he reflected during his struggles, showing resilience amid adversity.
This season saw him try to regain some of his former glory, stating before the season started, "Mich packt es wieder richtig," which means, "I am really getting back at it." He managed to finish eighth at the World Cup event held in Ruka, but soon after faced setbacks, including disappointing finishes at subsequent events. These challenges led to him missing the World Championships held recently in Trondheim.
DSV Sports Director Horst Hüttel praised Eisenbichler’s contributions, calling him "one of the great ski jumpers" and highlighting his successes, particularly referencing Eisenbichler’s impressive six World Championship titles. Hüttel conveyed hope for Eisenbichler’s future, mentioning, "Perhaps we will soon find our paths together again on the coaching side. That would make me very happy." This statement hints at the possibility of Eisenbichler staying involved with ski jumping post-retirement, perhaps transitioning to coaching.
Eisenbichler’s final farewell is highly anticipated as he prepares for the World Cup finale at Planica, a location rich with personal significance. It is here he celebrated his first victory and set his record. Speaking about his sentiment toward this event, he said, "Das wird emotional, aber es fühlt sich richtig an, jetzt aufzuhören," which translates to "It will be emotional, but it feels right to stop now." His farewell from competitive ski jumping marks the end of an era for German ski jumping, and as he steps away, the sport will undoubtedly miss his remarkable skills and charisma.
Fans and teammates alike are expected to turn out to pay tribute to his contributions during the World Cup final, where he hopes to take to the slopes one last time. Eisenbichler stands as a figure of inspiration for many up-and-coming jumpers, and his legacy will surely endure well beyond his last jump. He is effectively closing the chapter on what has been not just a career but also an integral part of his life, filled with dreams and aspirations realized.
His story is one of triumph and struggle, making him relatable to many athletes facing their own challenges. The impact he has had on the sport, and the emotional resonance of his career, will linger, ensuring Eisenbichler is remembered not just for his records but for the passion he brought to ski jumping.