Olympic Champion Facing Uncertainty Ahead of New Ski Jumping Season

Is the Ski Jumping Legend Facing the End?

The Swiss ski jumping team could see a surprise for the upcoming World Cup season. Olympic champion Simon Ammann is apparently facing uncertainty regarding his place on the roster.

Simon Ammann has been a staple of the Ski Jumping World Cup for decades. However, the four-time Olympic winner from Switzerland now seems to be fighting for his place in the new season.

According to a report from the Swiss Blick, three spots on the team have already been secured, leaving Ammann to contend for the last entry. Gregor Deschwanden and Kilian Peier have already locked in their places following strong performances last winter, while 18-year-old Felix Trunz, with three World Cup appearances under his belt, is also likely to secure a spot.

In contrast, the 43-year-old Ammann, who debuted in the World Cup in December 1997, had to compete in the lower-tier FIS Cup in August due to reportedly poor training performances. Critics have suggested that Ammann should consider retirement as an option.

"I feel the competition from the younger athletes. On one hand, it is now more challenging to assert myself, but on the other hand, we have good momentum in the whole group, which is motivating," Ammann was quoted as saying by Blick. He also expressed satisfaction with his performance development.

Will Ammann Compete in the World Cup at the End of November?

Swiss ski jumping coach Martin Künzle applied pressure, stating: "If a young athlete jumps as well as Simon, the decision is more likely to favor the youth." However, he acknowledged that Ammann is still among the top four jumpers.

Ammann still has time to prove himself before the new World Cup season starts in Lillehammer at the end of November. Behind the veteran, young jumper Juri Kesseli is also hoping for the remaining team spot. The 19-year-old recently won bronze at the Swiss championships, coming in just behind Ammann.