Ski jumping: For the third time! Ski jumping legend declares resignation

Tour record winner Janne Ahonen has announced his retirement from ski jumping for the third time. “I can confirm that my professional career has ended,” said the 41-year-old Finn to the newspaper Ilta-Sanomat.

There had already been speculations about a farewell at the beginning of May, when the 36-time World Cup winner had not appeared in the squad of the Finnish federation.

Ahonen had already declared his career over in 2008 and 2011, but now the step should be final. “My critics, who have been embarrassed by my performance lately, will be particularly pleased about this,” said the five-time winner of the Four Hills Tournament. Ahonen had not won a single World Cup point in the past season.

Ahonen has been in the World Cup circus since 1992. The greatest successes were five World Championship titles and two silver medals at Olympic Games with the team. In 2008 he replaced record holder Jens Weißflog with his fifth tour victory after 1999, 2003, 2005 and 2006.