Robert Kranjec announces his retirement

Slovenian Ski Flying specialist Robert Kranjec will end his career as a ski jumper this weekend in front of his home crowd at the World Cup final in Planica (SLO).

The 37-year-old announced this decision on social media on Wednesday. "On Saturday Planica and the fans gathered there will witness my last jump. I will be jumping through memories and the very best moments of my career. For the last time, I will take off down the ramp of my beloved Planica, smiling to you all in farewell. The chance to represent the Slovenian Eagles has been the biggest possible prize for my hard work, an absolute dream come true for any athlete", the former Ski Flying World Champion wrote.

Robert Kranjec, who didn't compete in the World Cup so far this winter, now wants to focus more on his family. "The time has come to jump onto a new path. Time to come home every night to my Špela and my Pika and to wake up with them every morning. It’s time for my new dreams to take flight."

The Slovenian crowd favorite made his World Cup debut almost exactly 21 years ago. During his long career, he won the title at the Ski Flying World Championships 2012 in Vikersund, claimed a total of seven World Cup wins, six of which in Ski Flying, and took bronze with the team at the 2002 Olympic Games in Salt Lake City, the 2011 World Championships in Oslo and the 2012 Ski Flying World Championships.