Hermann Maier
Hermann Maier
Hermann Maier (born December 7, 1972) is a former Austrian World Cup alpine ski racer and two-time Olympic champion. He is one of the most successful male skiers of all time, with four overall World Cup titles, two Olympic gold medals, three World Championship gold medals, and 54 World Cup victories.
Maier was born in Flachau, Austria, and began skiing at the age of two. He made his World Cup debut in 1990, and won his first race the following year. He went on to win the overall World Cup title four times, in 1998, 1999, 2000, and 2001. He also won the World Championship title in downhill in 1999 and 2001, and the super-G title in 1999.
Maier's career was interrupted by a serious motorcycle accident in 2001. He suffered severe injuries to his right leg, and was initially told that he would never ski again. However, he made a remarkable recovery and returned to the World Cup circuit the following year. He went on to win the overall World Cup title again in 2004, and won a silver medal in downhill at the 2006 Winter Olympics.
Maier retired from racing in 2009. He is now a successful businessman and motivational speaker. He is also a member of the International Ski Federation's (FIS) Hall of Fame.
Achievements
- 4 overall World Cup titles (1998, 1999, 2000, 2001)
- 2 Olympic gold medals (super-G in 1998, giant slalom in 2002)
- 3 World Championship gold medals (downhill in 1999 and 2001, super-G in 1999)
- 54 World Cup victories (15 downhill, 15 super-G, 14 giant slalom, 10 slalom)
Personal life
Maier is married to Carina, and they have two children. He is a Roman Catholic.
Legacy
Hermann Maier is one of the most successful male skiers of all time. He is a four-time overall World Cup champion, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, and a three-time World Champion. He is also a member of the FIS Hall of Fame. Maier is a role model for many young skiers, and he continues to inspire people with his story of overcoming adversity.
