Marcel Hirscher: A New Chapter Filled with Passion and Memories
Jul 24, 2024·Alpine Skiing
Photo © Agence Zoom
Marcel Hirscher, the renowned former Austrian skier, has announced his return to the slopes after a five-year hiatus, igniting excitement and curiosity in the skiing community. In a recent press conference hosted by former Dutch skier Maarten Meiners, Hirscher shared his plans and motivations for this unexpected comeback.
The Unexpected Decision to Return
Hirscher revealed that his decision to return to competitive skiing came as a surprise even to himself. "Around my birthday, I didn't yet know that I was going to make a comeback," he stated. The turning point came when he learned about Braathen's return, prompting him to consider participating in a few races while managing the deadlines.
A New Nationality and Fresh Start
A significant aspect of Hirscher's return is his change of nationality from Austria to the Netherlands. Hirscher explained that he wanted to avoid taking opportunities away from young Austrian athletes and saw this as a passionate project connected to his Dutch heritage. "After racing 99% of my races for my homeland, it’s nice to do 1% for the motherland," he said, honoring his mother’s Dutch roots.
Different Perspective on Skiing
Unlike his previous career focused on winning and maintaining peak performance, Hirscher now approaches his return as a new adventure. "I don't want to pick up where I left off. I just want to enjoy and participate from time to time," he emphasized. This time, it's about reconnecting with the joy of skiing rather than chasing past glories
Passion for Skiing and Business
Hirscher’s passion for skiing remains undiminished. He spoke about his ski brand, Van Deer, which keeps him connected to the sport. "I wanted to stay in the world of skiing in some form or another," he explained, highlighting his desire to develop the sport while occasionally competing.
Training and Upcoming Races
For the upcoming winter season, Hirscher plans to train in New Zealand with a small team and participate in a few races. "I’m curious to see what it will be like to wear a bib again," he admitted, showing both excitement and an awareness of the challenges ahead.
Balanced Life
The press conference also revealed a more personal side of Hirscher. "My life is busy, but it's beautiful," he shared, emphasizing the importance of his family and his two companies. Skiing is now a part of his life, but his focus has shifted from winning to having fun.
In conclusion, Marcel Hirscher's return to skiing is not about reliving past triumphs but about embracing a new chapter filled with passion, enjoyment, and memories. His journey back to the slopes, under a different flag, promises to be an exciting and heartfelt adventure.