By Ski Racing Media – with credit to Skinews.ch
Stephanie Venier, the 2025 Super-G World Champion and winner of 11 World Cup races, is closing one chapter while opening another. The 31-year-old Austrian, who retired from competitive skiing in August, announced that she and her partner, former World Cup racer Christian Walder, are expecting their first child.
“We’re absolutely thrilled. It was our biggest dream during my skiing career. We’re lucky that it happened so quickly,” Venier told Austria’s Kleine Zeitung.
Retirement Decision Unrelated to Pregnancy
Venier stressed that her retirement in August was not linked to her pregnancy. She said she began considering stepping away from the sport soon after winning her world title. Even amid public criticism of head coach Roland Assinger, she admitted she could imagine ending her career then.
She has no regrets. “I’m doing really well, I’m spending a lot of time outdoors. So far, I haven’t had any food cravings; I’m basically going from one extreme to the other,” she said.
Sharing the News Online
Venier also shared her joy on Instagram with a short video of an ultrasound image. Her caption read: “Our love is growing in the most magical way. The beginning of an eternal kind of love. Our little one will be joining us in 2026.”
The post sparked speculation about the baby’s gender, but the couple has not confirmed.
Wedding Plans Ahead
Before the baby arrives, Venier and Walder will marry. Their wedding is planned for September in Austria, marking another milestone for the Tyrolean star as she moves into life beyond racing.
About the Author: SR Staff Report
