Lucas Braathen announces shock retirement from alpine skiing at 23 years old: 'I'm done'
The reigning World Cup champion made the announcement during a press conference in Soelden, the very place where he secured his first World Cup win three years ago.
Alpine Skiing
Just hours before the opening World Cup event in Soelden, Norwegian alpine skier Lucas Braathen has announced his retirement from the sport during a press conference on Friday (27 October) at the Austrian resort.
The 23-year-old, donned in a pink wool jacket, a purple T-shirt, and with painted fingernails, addressed a small group of astonished reporters: "I'm done. For the first time in my career, I feel free," he said.
"In order for me to continue skiing within this system, I had to not only put my dreams aside, but also my joy of living. I'm not willing to do that anymore," the 2023 slalom World Cup winner continued.
"That said, I am happy to announce that at the place where I won my very first World Cup race, I am retiring. I'm done."
The announcement came after weeks of rumoured disputes with the Norwegian Ski Federation regarding image rights.
Braathen, who shared a 'Thank you' video on his Instagram account, entered the alpine's premier circuit in 2018, collecting five victories and 12 podium finishes. In 2022, he secured his first slalom victory in Wengen, surging 28 positions in the second run. Last season, he capped off a remarkable series of performances by clinching the slalom Crystal Globe.
"For the first time, after my decision, I feel happy. I am grateful for everything I've been through in my career." Lucas Braathen