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“It was a great time”: Speed-Ass says goodbye

The German ski team has lost one of its most experienced speed specialists: Dominik Schwaiger has ended his career as a ski racer. The 33-year-old put an end to his career on Instagram and said goodbye.

20 December 2024

From: sn

"It's time to say goodbye" - with these words the Berchtesgadener began his farewell post, in which he openly explained the reasons for ending his career. "My persistent back problems, which are not getting better despite numerous treatments, unfortunately leave me no other choice - even if this step is incredibly difficult for me," wrote the downhill skier.

Schwaiger nevertheless looks back on his time in the World Cup with gratitude. With 116 starts in the World Cup, two World Championships and one Olympic participation, he was able to celebrate some successes.

From dream to career: Schwaiger's eventful skiing career

He was particularly proud of having turned his passion into his career. "It was a dream come true - which taught me more than just how to ski. I had a great time with you!" Schwaiger continued.

His greatest sporting highlight was seventh place in the Beaver Creek downhill in December 2019. He also finished 2021th in the overall downhill rankings in the 22/18 season. At the 2019 World Championships in Åre, Sweden, he finished 15th in the Super-G. At the 2022 Olympic Games in Beijing, he had to give up after a serious fall in the downhill.

Hard farewell, but a new phase of life awaits

The end of his active career is difficult for the long-time head athlete, but he is looking to the future with confidence: "Saying goodbye to skiing is anything but easy for me, but I am looking forward to what awaits me in my new phase of life. Stay tuned!", said Schwaiger with a positive outlook.

His last World Cup start took place in February 2024 in Kvitfjell, Norway. With Schwaiger's retirement, the German alpine team is losing another experienced athlete who has helped shape the international speed scene. Schwaiger has not yet revealed what he will do with his time from now on. However, the 33-year-old and his partner Lea Zeilinger made it public nine weeks ago that they are expecting a child.