Noel von Grünigen has had enough. © Social Media

“That's it”: Son of a ski legend ends his career

Although he didn't enjoy quite as much success as his father, Noel von Grünigen can still look back on a successful career. Now, at the age of 30, a new phase of his life begins.

August 07, 2025

From: leo

"That's it, a wonderful time is coming to an end," Noel von Grünigen begins the post announcing his retirement. The Swiss skier competed in 36 World Cup races, finishing in the points three times, with a 19th place finish in the slalom in Schladming in 2021 being his best result. He celebrated the most prestigious success of his career in February 2022, when he took his only European Cup victory in Almaasa, Sweden.

"After careful consideration, I'm ending my career. I can look back on a good number of World Cup races and numerous starts in European Cup races. I can carry the resulting successes close to my heart and they are a thank you for the hard work I've done over 10 years as a professional," explains von Grünigen, who adds: "Somehow, I didn't get quite as far as I hoped as a young boy, but I did get much further than I thought I would. When I realized how difficult it is to make it into the World Cup, I can still look back with joy."

His father won everything

As the son of a skiing legend, the 30-year-old didn't have it easy, especially since he was also measured against his father's successes. Michael von Grünigen won 23 World Cup races, became a two-time world champion, and won a bronze medal at the Olympics.

Noel von Grünigen is ending his playing career. © AFP / PIERRE TEYSSOT

"Even more than the results, I remember the privilege of having been a ski racer and thus part of an entire Swiss ski generation. Traveling around the world with a great team and making countless memories in the sport and off the slopes was a huge enrichment for me. For me, it is and will remain an unforgettable time, one that I can already look back on with great pride; I really enjoyed it. I would give a lot if I could remember every single story, no matter how funny. There were quite a few," von Grünigen concludes his message.

In the comments, many companions congratulated him on his career, including South Tyrolean Simon Maurberger, Swiss Corinne Suter and US star AJ Ginnis.