Marie Martinod

Marie Martinod has transitioned from an Olympic freestyle skier to a trailblazer in her sport, inspiring others with her remarkable comeback and dedication. After winning three events in the inaugural FIS Freestyle Skiing World Cup season in 2003/04, Marie Martinod established herself as a formidable talent in the emerging discipline of halfpipe skiing, securing her first career halfpipe crystal globe. Her early dominance continued with a bronze medal achievement at the prestigious X Games in Aspen in 2006, further cementing her position among the sport’s elite. Martinod made the decision to step away from competitive skiing in 2006.

Her career hiatus concluded in 2011, driven by the significant announcement that freestyle halfpipe would be included in the Olympic Winter Games, igniting her pursuit of Olympic qualification. Demonstrating remarkable resilience and skill after her extended break, she quickly regained peak form, clinching a significant victory in the halfpipe event at the X Games Europe in Tignes in 2013. This successful return culminated in earning a silver medal at the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics, an event where halfpipe skiing made its highly anticipated Olympic debut. Her powerful performance included executing a McTwist and a 900 on her second run, contributing to her score of 84.50 points.

Martinod ultimately concluded her distinguished professional career with a second Olympic silver medal at the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympics, solidifying her legacy in the sport. She officially retired from competitive skiing on March 22, 2018, leaving an indelible mark as a pioneering and highly decorated athlete.