Maren Lundby, Olympic Champion in Ski Jumping in 2018, Announces Retirement

Maren Lundby, Olympic Champion in Ski Jumping in 2018, Announces Retirement

Originally published in L'Équipe on December 18, 2023

Ski Jumping: Maren Lundby, Olympic Champion in Ski Jumping in 2018, Announces Retirement

Maren Lundby has announced her retirement from ski jumping at the age of 29. The Norwegian athlete, who won a gold medal at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, shared her decision during an emotional press conference.

"I have invited you here to tell you that I am retiring," she said, visibly in tears. "This is a decision that I have been considering for some time. I have thought it through and it is the best thing for me."

Lundby, who had previously withdrawn from the 2022 Beijing Olympics due to health issues related to her weight, made a remarkable comeback this year. She secured a second-place finish at the 2023 World Championships on the large hill in Planica, Slovenia.

At just 29, Lundby boasts one of the most impressive resumes in ski jumping history, including her Olympic title, two World Championship titles, three overall World Cup victories, and a total of 30 World Cup wins. Her decision to retire marks the end of a significant chapter in her career and in the sport itself.