Gregor SchlierenzauerAustrian ski jumper
Date of Birth: 07.01.1990
Country: Austria |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- Breakthrough and International Debut
- World Championship Triumphs
- Record-Breaking Season and World Cup Victory
- Rivalry with Simon Ammann
Early Life and Career
Gregor Schlierenzauer was born in Innsbruck, Austria, on January 5, 1990. He is the second of three children born to Paulus and Angelika Schlierenzauer. His uncle, Marcus Prock, is a five-time world champion and three-time Olympic medalist in luge.
At the age of eight, Schlierenzauer began ski jumping at the Bergisel Ski Club. He quickly dedicated himself to the sport, which led to struggles in school. After completing high school, he enrolled in the ski academy in Fulpmes, near Innsbruck.
Breakthrough and International Debut
Schlierenzauer made his international debut in the 2005-06 season and finished 2nd in the Four Hills Tournament. On December 3, 2006, he won his first World Cup event in Lillehammer, becoming the youngest athlete to do so. He also won stages in Oberstdorf and Bischofshofen, finishing 4th overall in the World Cup standings.
World Championship Triumphs
In the 2007-08 season, Schlierenzauer emerged as a top contender for the World Cup title. He won events in Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Innsbruck, and captured two gold medals at the World Ski Flying Championships in Oberstdorf. Despite a strong finish, he ended the season in 2nd place overall.
Record-Breaking Season and World Cup Victory
Schlierenzauer had an unforgettable 2008-09 season. He won six consecutive World Cup events, becoming only the fourth athlete to achieve this feat. He ended the season with a record-breaking final jump of 233.5 meters in Planica. On March 8, he secured the overall World Cup title, becoming the youngest champion in the history of the competition.
Rivalry with Simon Ammann
The 2009-10 season saw a fierce rivalry between Schlierenzauer and Simon Ammann. While Schlierenzauer won the opening event in Engelberg, Ammann regained the lead after the Four Hills Tournament. Despite strong performances early in the tournament, Schlierenzauer once again finished second.