An astonishing comeback in Austria's ski scene

The World Cup races in Kitzbühel are the biggest stage a skier can get. And it was precisely there that Christopher Neumayer caused astonishment. The Austrian raced to 12th place in the legendary Hahnenkamm downhill last January and achieved the best result of his career - but just a few moments later, the now 32-year-old unexpectedly announced his retirement live on TV.

"I haven't been in the ÖSV squad for a while, I was always shuffled between the World Cup and the European Cup. I'm just empty. That's it for me," said Neumayer in an interview with TV presenter Rainer Pariasek.

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More than half a year has passed since then - and Neumayer is now causing a stir again. "Resignation from retirement," the downhill skier wrote on Instagram, where he revealed his comeback secret. "After an intensive period of reflection, I have decided: I am not yet ready to let go of skiing."

There are many words and explanations, says Neumayer. "I have been concentrating fully on my training since the summer and I know I am ready. When even the hardest training is fun, you know that the decision is the right one," says the Austrian, who adds with a wink: "So I can put on my Kitzbühel skis again this year."

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An astonishing comeback in Austria's ski scene

After an astonishing announcement of his retirement live on TV, an Austrian downhill skier has now announced his equally astonishing comeback.

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