What You Need to Know About the Woods

Maria Höfl-Riesch

Maria Höfl-Riesch is a retired alpine ski racer from Germany. During her career, she competed in the World Cup, World Championships, and the Olympics. She is one of the most successful alpine skiers of all time, with a total of 82 World Cup victories and 11 World Championship medals.

Early Life and Career

Höfl-Riesch was born on November 24, 1984, in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany. She began skiing at the age of three and started competing in FIS races at the age of 15. In 2001, she made her World Cup debut at the age of 16. She won her first World Cup race in 2003.

Olympic Success

Höfl-Riesch competed in four Olympic Games. She won a gold medal in the slalom at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver and a bronze medal in the super-G at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi.

World Championship Success

Höfl-Riesch won a total of 11 medals at the World Championships. She won gold medals in the slalom, super-G, and team event at the 2011 World Championships in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. She also won gold medals in the super-G and downhill at the 2013 World Championships in Schladming.

Retirement

Höfl-Riesch retired from competitive skiing in 2014. She is now a ski commentator and works with the German Ski Association. She is also a member of the International Ski Federation (FIS) Athletes Commission.