Olympic champion, world champion: Swiss skiing star ends her career

Lara Gut-Behrami, the Swiss ski racing star known for her dominance in the sport, has announced her retirement at the age of 35. The decision was made public on Wednesday, marking the end of a remarkable career spanning nearly two decades. In a detailed statement, Gut-Behrami expressed gratitude for the opportunities she had been given and emphasized that her choice to step away from competitive skiing was voluntary. She noted that despite years of competition, injuries, and setbacks, she does not suffer from chronic pain and wished to avoid unnecessary risks. Her decision comes after a period of recovery following a serious knee injury sustained in November, which initially threatened to derail her plans for a farewell season. Gut-Behrami’s career has been defined by numerous achievements. With 48 World Cup victories under her belt, she ranks among the most successful racers in history, second only to Vreni Schneider with 55 titles. She has claimed two Olympic gold medals, two world championship titles, and seven Crystal Globe awards, honors recognizing excellence in the overall standings. Her last race took place in October, where she finished third in the giant slalom at Rettenbach Glacier in Sölden. The announcement of her retirement came just months before what was intended to be her final season, originally planned for the 2025–2026 campaign. However, the severe knee injury forced her to delay her return and reconsider her future in the sport. The injury, suffered during training in late November, required extensive rehabilitation and led to a temporary hiatus from competition. Despite this setback, Gut-Behrami had hoped to make a comeback ahead of the home World Championships in Crans-Montana in 2027. That opportunity will now remain unrealized. Her decision to retire reflects both personal considerations and professional assessments. She stated that the timing felt right because she no longer felt compelled to push herself to the limits, a sentiment echoed by many athletes nearing the end of their careers. Gut-Behrami’s retirement signals a major loss for Swiss ski racing. She has long been one of the country’s most recognizable figures in winter sports, admired for her technical skill, consistency, and resilience. Her absence will be keenly felt in the Alpine skiing community, particularly in the women’s discipline, where she set high standards over the years. Fans and fellow competitors alike have expressed admiration for her dedication and the legacy she leaves behind. Many view her as a role model who exemplified the spirit of perseverance and passion for the sport. Her decision to retire voluntarily underscores a growing trend among elite athletes who prioritize long-term health and well-being over continued competition. While some might have expected her to continue racing into her early 30s, Gut-Behrami chose instead to focus on other aspects of life beyond the slopes. This approach aligns with broader discussions within the sporting world about the importance of sustainable athletic careers and the need to balance ambition with self-care. Looking ahead, Gut-Behrami’s transition from athlete to non-competitive life will likely involve new challenges and opportunities. While specifics of her post-retirement plans were not disclosed, her statement suggested a desire to explore interests outside of professional racing. Whether she remains active in the sport through coaching, commentary, or advocacy, her influence will undoubtedly persist. For now, however, the spotlight shifts to the next generation of skiers who will inherit the mantle of excellence she so proudly carried for nearly two decades.