Stephan Leyhe Announces Retirement After Decorated Ski Jumping Career

In a poignant announcement that marks the end of an era, Stephan Leyhe, the 33-year-old German ski jumper, has declared his retirement after an illustrious career spanning over a decade. Leyhe's final competition will take place this Saturday, March 22, 2025, in Lahti, Finland, as confirmed by his home club, SC Willingen, on March 20.

Leyhe's decision to retire comes at a time when he reflects on a career filled with remarkable achievements, including multiple Olympic medals and a world championship title. His prowess on the slopes has made him a beloved figure in the German skiing community. "Es gab viele schöne Momente in meiner Karriere, aber natürlich stechen die Olympia- und WM-Medaillen sowie mein Sieg in Willingen heraus," Leyhe shared in a statement, looking back at the highlights of his journey.

Among his career milestones, leyhe is perhaps best known for winning the silver medal with the German team at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang and securing another silver at the 2016 Ski Flying World Championships held at Kulm. In 2019, he also claimed the coveted team world champion title, showcasing his strong contribution to the national team.

One of Leyhe's defining moments came on February 8, 2020, when he earned his first and only World Cup victory in front of a jubilant crowd of 23,500 fans in his home town of Willingen. This victory not only highlighted his talent but also solidified his connection with the fans who supported him throughout his career. It was a heartwarming day, especially after a severe injury that had sidelined him for an entire season.

During the Prologue to the Raw-Air-Tour in Trondheim, Leyhe suffered a cruciate ligament tear shortly after his victory, which kept him from competing in the 2020/2021 season and excluded him from participating in the home world championships. Nevertheless, Leyhe made a triumphant return to competitive skiing, securing a top-ten place in his comeback race in November 2021, further proving his resilience.

While Leyhe’s accomplishments have been extraordinary, recent performances led him to decide that now was the right time to retire. Just last week, fellow skater Markus Eisenbichler announced his retirement as well, marking the end of a chapter in German ski jumping history. The completion of Leyhe’s career alongside Eisenbichler signifies a notable transition for the sport.

Horst Hüttel, the DSV’s World Cup sports director, noted, "Wir bedauern die Entscheidung von Stephan sehr, auch wenn wir sie natürlich respektieren," highlighting the impact Leyhe had on the team and acknowledging the void his departure will leave. Hüttel emphasized that Leyhe has been a pillar of the national team, with consistent performances and numerous medals contributing significantly to the team’s success.

Looking ahead to Lahti, Leyhe's final performance is set against the backdrop of his dual legacy — both as an individual athlete and as a beloved team player. While Leyhe may be stepping back from the sport, his history of achievements will continue to inspire aspiring ski jumpers and fans alike.

As Stephan Leyhe prepares for his last jump, one can't help but reminisce about key moments in his career and the pride he brought not only to himself but also to his hometown of Willingen. He leaves behind a legacy defined by tenacity, spirit, and remarkable talent in a sport that demands both mental and physical endurance.

Ultimately, Leyhe's journey has been about more than just medals and podium finishes; it has been a testament to the dedication and passion required to excel at the highest level of competition. This weekend, as he takes to the slopes for one final time, the ski jumping community will undoubtedly reflect on his contributions and the joy his presence has brought to the sport.

Stephan Leyhe’s retirement from competitive skiing is an emotional moment, not just for him but for the entire ski jumping community. As he hangs up his skis and bids farewell to the competitive circuit, he will forever remain a revered figure within the hearts of fans and fellow athletes. The legacy he leaves behind will continue to inspire generations to come.