Ahead of the highly awaited FIS Alpine Ski World Cup, the alpine skiing legends are girding up for their best performances. All eyes on Mikaela Shiffrin, as she goes on to clinch her 100th career victory if she wins this time. On the other hand, the men’s team has the legendary Swiss Marco Odermatt to look out for. However, an unforeseen announcement caught the ski enthusiasts off guard.

Lucas Braathen, the 23-year-old World Cup alpine ski racer, drew a line to his evolving sporting career. The Super-G silver medalist had made his World Cup debut in 2018. Last year, he leapt from 29th to 1st place, earning his first SL at the Lauberhorn race in Wengen. But just hours away from another probable win, he made headlines.

Alpine Skiing legend retires at 23

Braathen took to his Instagram handle to post the news, but his tone didn’t seem gloomy. Despite taking a decision to retire so early, he doesn’t regret a single bit. Rather, he said that he was “happy” having been mindful in career decisions. He further added, “grateful for everything I have been through in my career.” Though unconfirmed, sources think that his uncalled for decision was based on his previous dispute.

Some time back, the 23-year-old skier had involved himself in a modeling venture for the Norwegian Ski Federation’s rival clothing brand. However, nothing can be said as Braathen himself didn’t open up much. In fact, he informed his team mates just the previous evening. But, his freedom was visible in his expressions. He said at a press conference, “I’m done. For the first time in my career, I feel free.”

READ MORE: 30 Days Before Skiing World Cup, Legend Mikaela Shiffrin Takes a Break in Recent Update

Top Stories

Bills Legend Jim Kelly Announces Final Cancer Update After Years of Battle

Brian Schottenheimer Blames Locker Room for Loss After Pointing Fingers at Cowboys QB

Jordan Spieth Breaks Silence on ‘Exemptions’ Backlash After Career Hit All-Time Low

Calls Mount Against Refs’ Controversial Decision Involving Dak Prescott in Cowboys vs Lions TNF Game

Dak Prescott Faces NFL Discipline After Doubling Down on Referees Over Cowboys Penalties

Jared Goff Makes Bold Super Bowl Promise After Lions’ Win

Owing to his various career victories, it’s not unlikely that he won fans’ hearts as well. As he announced his retirement globally, baffled well-wishers landed in his comment section to convey their agonies.

Fans left in shock at Braathen’s early departure

Left in complete surprise, a former Alpine skiing star said, “I can‘t believe this! If it is because of the federation, I would marry you and then you can start for Germany. My wife would be totally fine with it.” Though the statement asserted confusion regarding the reason for retirement, the fun tone lightened the situation. Another skier had expressed his share of grief and the distinct loss of the skiing industry. He wrote, “You can’t do this !!! Guys like you are so important for our sport, hope it’s not definitive. The system needs to change, but it’s a huge loss for the ski racing world.”

One more of his fellow skiers showed support, said, “Always with you” with two red hearts. Another sporting legend, Julia Scharf, thought that his premature retirement came heavy on the young skiers. She wrote, “Nooooooooooooooooo – so many kids need you between the gates and off the slope as a role model.” Surprisingly, another fan seemed content with the 23-year-old’s decision. He wrote, “Freedom at its best. You are the Real King Lucas.”

Watch this story: In Unforeseen Turn of Events Skiing World Becomes $100,000,000 Netflix Co-Owner Update

The World Cup starts on October 28 with women’s Giant Slalom Run 1 in Solden. The final leg of the event will take place on March 16-23.