A South Tyrolean has ended her career. © Social Media

“Childhood dream fulfilled”: The next ski retirement in South Tyrol

Last week, Manuel Ploner ended his skiing career. Now, after numerous injuries, another athlete from South Tyrol has decided to call it a day.

19 April 2025

From: leo

It's been over seven years since Vivien Insam made her World Cup debut in Flachau. Since then, many things have happened in the Selva native's career: cruciate ligament tears, meniscus damage, broken kneecaps, bone marrow injuries. As if the list wasn't long enough, the 27-year-old was also set back by mononucleosis last season. Now Insam has decided to hang up her skis.

"Today, an important chapter in my life comes to an end," the Val Gardena native writes on social media. "It all began as a child, when snow was just a game and skiing a dream. Every race, every training session, every injury, every finish line reached has made me the person I am today. I realized my childhood dream and competed in the World Cup – despite the obstacles, despite the injuries, and despite the moments when giving up seemed like the easiest option."

Ready for a new life

Although Insam hasn't achieved everything she dreamed of and put her heart and soul into, "I'm a little proud of myself today. I fought until the end, even in this last season with glandular fever. I learned something from every curve, from every swing," Insam concludes her farewell message.

Vivien Insam competed nine times in the World Cup. © Pentaphoto

Nadia Delago, a longtime companion of Insam, also said goodbye: "There are people who come into your life early and then stay by your side forever. Together we experienced moments full of joy – but also difficult times with setbacks, disappointments, and tears. But through it all, you were always there."

The slalom and giant slalom specialist has competed in a total of nine World Cup races, finished in the top five once in the European Cup, was crowned Italian Slalom Champion in 5, and participated in a Junior World Championship. Now, a new chapter opens for Insam.