Markus Eisenbichler, one of Germany’s most celebrated ski jumpers, has announced his retirement from competitive skiing, choosing to conclude his illustrious career after the upcoming World Cup final at Planica, Slovenia, scheduled for March 28 to March 30, 2025. This poignant decision was shared on March 12, 2025, via Eisenbichler's Instagram channel. His post reflects the emotional weight of this milestone, as he expresses gratitude for his career and the joy the sport has brought him.
With six World Championship titles under his belt, Eisenbichler is not just another athlete; he holds the record for the most World Championship victories in German ski jumping history. Among his many achievements, he won his first individual World Cup series at Planica in 2019, where he also impressively set a German long jump record of 248 meters. His remarkable skill and determination on the ski jump earned him fans worldwide and solidified his place as a sports legend.
Reflecting on his decision to retire, Eisenbichler shared, “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.” (Ski jumping was my life – with highs and lows, with emotions hard to put in words. I was allowed to celebrate incredible successes: World Champion titles, World Cup victories, medals – successes I could only dream of as a child). His words encapsulate the bittersweet reality of leaving behind the sport he's dedicated two decades to.
Despite his past glories, recent seasons proved challenging for the 33-year-old athlete. After struggling with performance issues and injuries, including knee problems, Eisenbichler found himself relegated from the World Cup circuit and briefly competing at the Continental Cup level. His absence from major competitions such as the World Championships and the Four Hills Tournament raised concerns about his future within the sport.
Yet he remained relentless. Describing his career, Eisenbichler stated, “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.” (I have lived my dream and am immensely thankful. But I also look forward to what lies ahead: new challenges, new experiences, and finally time for things I've neglected.) His open acknowledgment of both his struggles and successes continues to endear him to fans, equipping him with deep lessons learned from which many can draw inspiration.
DSV Sports Director Horst Hüttel praised Eisenbichler, stating, “Mit Markus Eisenbichler verlässt einer der ganz großen Skispringer die Weltcup-Bühne.” (With Markus Eisenbichler, one of the great ski jumpers is leaving the World Cup stage.) He acknowledged Eisenbichler’s substantial contributions to the sport, hoping to see him transition smoothly to potential coaching roles within the ski jumping community. Hüttel added, “Vielleicht gehen unsere Wege auf der Trainerseite bald gemeinsam weiter. Das würde mich sehr freuen.” (Perhaps our paths will cross on the coaching side soon; I would be very pleased.)
The impending farewell at Planica has become the focal point of reverent anticipation among fans, marking the end of not only Eisenbichler's career but also the closing chapter of one of Germany’s finest legends of ski jumping. With the final event looming, there is palpable excitement and emotion about the iconic athlete’s last leaps down the hill.
Looking back at his career, Eisenbichler’s legacy is undeniable. He debuted on the World Cup circuit during the 2011/12 season and has risen through the ranks to become one of the sport's most prominent figures. At the 2019 World Championships held in Seefeld, he clinched gold on the large hill and also contributed to team efforts securing four additional gold medals, cementing his position as Germany's most decorated ski jumper.
Even as he prepares for this final chapter, his thoughts remain grounded. Eisenbichler appreciates the vast audience supporting him through thick and thin, with many fans planning to attend the final event. He aims to savor every moment, and as he steps on the ramp one last time, he will undoubtedly reflect on the exhilarating highs, sobering lows, and everything intertwining this rich legacy.
The emotional finale at Planica promises to be both bittersweet and exhilarating for Eisenbichler and his supporters, filled with echoes of past victories and aspirations for future endeavors. His final jumps will not only symbolize the end of an era but also the beginning of new opportunities and experiences, as he shifts from competitor to potentially mentoring the next generation of ski jumpers. While the string of victories will be missed, Markus Eisenbichler's impact on the sport of ski jumping, and its fans, will remain eternal.