Stefan Kraft

Austria

  • 1993-05-13
  • Austria
  • 170 cm
Goals are there to be achieved: Stefan Kraft
Goals are there to be achieved: Stefan Kraft
Goals are there to be achieved: Stefan Kraft
Goals are there to be achieved: Stefan Kraft

Nordic

Goals are there to be achieved: Stefan Kraft

Austrian ski jumper Stefan Kraft does what many dream of: he flies. On March 18, 2017, he set new standards by landing a new ski flying world record with 253.5 meters. Ahead of the 22l23 season, the Olympic and multiple world champion extended his contract with Fischer and is looking forward to the new season: "Fischer and I are united not only by the desire to always be at the top, but also by the drive for stability, reliability and the right values in life."

How long have you been successful at Fischer?

It feels like I have always been. I know I've been jumping Fischer since I was 12 years old. I can also remember the Austrian Championships in 2008, I was 15 then, the Fischer ski was already an "old" friend. Being able to extend my cooperation with Fischer again made me very happy this time. Since Fischer has been with me my whole career and always inspires me with its skis, I'm looking forward to being able to fully attack again this season with the best materials.

When did you start ski jumping?

I was 10 when I watched my friend Christian Reiter jump for the first time. That changed my life. I was so impressed that I started jumping as well. Later, I was even allowed to go to the ski gymnasium in Stams. Every time I am on the hill, I am excited and it's almost the same since I was 10 years old. The moment when you start skiing down the hill is one of the best moments in life.

What was the biggest breakthrough in your ski jumping career?

I would say it was in 2013 at the Four Hills Tournament in Bischofshofen. At that time I came 3rd out of the national group at the tour final, and from then on I was a fixed part of the national team. But it is also important to me that we have done a good job overall with my long career. I have been working with my personal coach Patrick Murnig since I was 17 years old. Our goal - in addition to athletic goals - was to work on my personality. Some athletes really turn up the heat when they succeed and some fail when they feel the pressure of winning. We try to stay down to earth, show humility and respect, and enjoy it too.

Which is your favorite jumping hill and why?

I love the ski flying hill in Planica. There is always a good atmosphere there and the feeling in the air is simply unique. High ground clearance and flights over 250m. A dream for every ski jumper. Of course, I also like my home hill in Bischofshofen and since my world record there, Vikersund has also become very special to me.

 

What kind of training do you enjoy the most?

If it's just about the fun factor, then of course any training that you can do together as a team. Training together strengthens the team spirit and is never boring. If it's just about my sport, I have to say that ski jumping itself is always the highlight. But I also like the weight room a lot. And playful things in the spring, with soccer, tennis, or even simple endurance training. Since I always just like to be in motion, training is easy for me.

To which kind of training do you have to get over yourself?

I only find it hard to workout when I already have big muscle soreness from the workouts before. Lol

What do you like to do in your free time?

I like to spend my free time in nature, although sports are usually in the foreground here as well. You can find me hiking, mountain biking or skiing in the Grossarl Valley. I'm also still an avid soccer player and I'm proud to say that I'm also getting better and better at tennis.

What are the 3 most important things to know about you?

I am very determined and I am a Bayern Munich fan. But the most important factor for me is my family and friends, who are often at the competitions and support me in every aspect of my life.

What is your personal quote or motto?

"Goals are there to be achieved!"

Where have you not been yet, where would you like to go?

I've been around a lot - fortunately - most of it with my sport, of course. It would be great to be at a Champions League final or the French Open. On our vacations, we are usually drawn to countries and areas where we are not guests with the World Cup. This year, for example, we were in Thailand, it was wonderful. My wife and I also dream of a "little" trip around the world ... we'll see when it happens.

What advice would you give to a young athlete?

Since I was 17, I've had someone by my side who has not only supported me athletically, but above all in terms of personality. I benefited a lot from that. You should always have a plan, never stop fighting, and even in difficult situations have the courage to ask for advice and take it.

What does the hashtag #livetoski mean to you?

Everything. Both professionally as a ski jumper, and as a piste skier and ski tourer, two boards - a little snow - yeah!