Winter Olympic alpine skiing, has announced her retirement from competitive sport following a difficult battle with a chronic knee injury. At just 25 years old, Kolly's decision brings a premature close to a career marked by bold descents, technical precision, and unwavering dedication to her national team. While her name may not have filled World Cup podiums, Kolly's journey reflects the grit and sacrifice that defines the life of a professional skier.
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In a heartfelt statement shared on social media and through Swiss-Ski, the national governing body, Kolly said, My body is no longer able to handle the demands of high-level skiing. This decision wasn't easy, but after many setbacks and conversations with doctors and coaches, I know it's the right one.
From Fribourg to the World Cup
Born in the mountainous canton of Fribourg, Noémie Kolly's connection to Winter Olympic alpine skiing began early. She started racing in local competitions as a child and quickly stood out for her natural balance, smooth carving technique, and fierce competitive drive. By her late teens, Kolly was already part of Switzerland's national development program, representing her country at junior international events.
Her breakout moment came at the 2018 Junior World Championships, where she finished in the top ten in both the downhill and super-G. That same year, she debuted on the FIS World Cup circuit, entering one of the sport's most demanding arenas with the hope of climbing to elite ranks alongside Swiss stars like Lara Gut-Behrami and Corinne Suter.
Though she didn't achieve the fame or consistency of her veteran teammates, Kolly was widely respected for her work ethic and her strong performances on challenging courses. Her best World Cup result was a 17th-place finish in the Val di Fassa downhill in 2021, but her value to the team went beyond rankings. She was always someone who pushed herself and others, said Swiss head coach Beat Tschuor. Even when she wasn't at 100%, she gave everything in training and competition. That spirit will be missed.
Injury and Resilience: Kolly's Road to Retirement from Winter Olympic Alpine Skiing
Kolly's troubles began with a crash during a training run in late 2021, where she tore her ACL and damaged cartilage in her right knee. After surgery and months of physical therapy, she attempted a comeback in early 2023 but found the recovery process far more difficult than expected.
Knees are the heart of Winter Olympic alpine skiing, she once said. They absorb every landing, every vibration, every turn. Mine just didn't come back the way I hoped. Despite careful load management, strength training, and a modified schedule, Kolly's knee pain persisted. She missed the entirety of the 2023–24 season, focusing instead on rehabilitation and seeking medical consultations. Multiple evaluations confirmed that continued high-impact competition could risk permanent damage to her joint. Faced with that reality, Kolly made the difficult decision to retire, just two years before a potential shot at the Winter Olympic Milano Cortina 2026.
The Emotional Toll of Early Retirement
Stepping away from competitive Winter Olympic alpine skiing is never easy, but for athletes like Kolly—who grew up with dreams of Olympic glory—it's particularly painful. In interviews, she's spoken candidly about the emotional toll of injuries, isolation during rehab, and the fear of losing her athletic identity. You put everything into this sport. Your time, your energy, your identity. Letting go of that isn't something you can prepare for, she said in a recent interview with Swiss television. You Can Read Winter Olympic 2026: Mikaela Shiffrin Net Worth From Olympic Alpine Skiing Glory to Financial Success
Athletes often talk about physical pain, but Kolly emphasized the psychological battle: watching teammates race, seeing your name fade from start lists, and wondering whether the sacrifices were worth it. But when I look back, I know I gave everything. That's something no injury can take from me.
Support from the Winter Olympic Alpine Skiing Community
Following her retirement announcement, tributes poured in from fellow athletes, coaches, and fans. Swiss teammates posted messages of support on Instagram, recalling shared training camps, long travel days, and the bond built on icy slopes. Lara Gut-Behrami called Kolly a fighter with a great heart, while Corinne Suter said, Her courage and determination inspired us all.
Swiss-Ski released an official statement recognizing Kolly's contribution to the national team and expressing hope that she would remain involved in the sport in some capacity. Discussions are already underway about a potential ambassador or development role, where Kolly could share her experience with young athletes. Her understanding of speed events, her attention to detail, and her ability to connect with younger skiers make her a natural mentor, said a representative from the Swiss federation.
A New Chapter Beyond Winter Olympic Alpine Skiing
Though she's stepping away from racing, Noémie Kolly has hinted at future plans outside of skiing. She's expressed interest in completing her studies in sports science or physiotherapy, possibly combining her academic goals with a role in athlete development or injury prevention.
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I want to stay close to sport, she said. Whether it's helping others recover or working with the next generation, I feel like this chapter is ending but a new one is beginning. Her story adds to a growing conversation about the physical toll of Winter Olympic alpine skiing—a sport that combines high speeds, steep gradients, and unpredictable conditions. It also highlights the need for better long-term support systems for injured athletes, especially women in speed disciplines, who often face more career-threatening injuries.
A Reminder of Winter Olympic Alpine Skiing Brutality and Beauty
Noémie Kolly's career, though cut short, serves as a powerful reminder of the courage required in Winter Olympic alpine skiing. Every descent carries risk, and every injury can alter the course of a life. Yet athletes like Kolly continue to throw themselves down icy mountains, chasing fractions of a second and moments of brilliance.
While the record books may not show Olympic medals or World Cup wins, Kolly's impact resonates in quieter, deeper ways: in the younger skiers she's encouraged, the teammates she's uplifted, and the integrity she brought to every race. As she steps away from the limelight, Kolly does so with pride and peace. I won't be standing in a start gate again, she said. But I'll always be part of this world. Skiing shaped me—and I'll carry that forever.
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