Michael Neumayer has decided to end his ski jumping career after 16 years in the World Cup.

"During this season I tried everything I could again in order to being able to compete with the world's best ski jumpers. From time to time, like at the 4-Hills-Tournament, I was able to do that. But in the past weeks it became clear to me that, despite my ambition, I would not be able to jump on this level for a longer period of time anymore.

The decision to end my career was not easy. Ski jumping was my passion. I had a really nice time and could gain lots of valuable experience as a ski jumper. But it's time to quit and focus on new tasks. I want to thank everyone who supported my over the past years - sponsors, fans and especially my family", told the 37-year-old German.

But he doesn't want to say farewell to ski jumping completely. Michael Neumayer plans to become a technical delegate for the FIS and also a job with the German Ski Association (DSV) is possible.

"For may years Michael was a very important part of our team. The German Ski Association wishes him all the best for the future. The door is always open for him", said Horst Huettel, sporting director for ski jumping and nordic combined in the DSV.

Michael Neumayer made his debut in the World Cup in December 2000 and achieved a total of three podium finishes, the last one when he came in second in a ski flying event in Vikersund in January 2013.

At the Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver 2010 he won silver with the German team, at World Championships he took a total of four medals in team competitions, one of which in ski flying.

His best result in the overall World Cup was a ninth place in the 2012/13 season, 2007/08 Michael Neumayer was third in the 4-Hills-Tournament.

Source: fis-ski.com