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Photo: Manfred Werner / Tsui (CC BY-SA 3.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Hermann
Maier
Career overview
With multiple World Cup titles and Olympic gold medals, he is regarded as one of the greatest alpine ski racers in history.
Visit the official Hermann Maier site →
Career honours
1Olympic Gold Medals · 2 (1998, both in giant slalom and super-G)2
1World Cup Overall Titles · 4 (1998, 2000, 2001, 2004)4
2World Championship Titles · 3 (1999: 2, 2005)3
2World Cup Race Victories · 54 total54
3Most Points in a Season (until 2013) · 2000 points in 2000 season
Records
RMost Points in a Single World Cup Season · 2000 points in the 2000 season (record held until 2013).
RTotal World Cup Wins · 54, ranking third all-time.
Biography
Early Life & Origins
Hermann Maier was born in Flachau, Austria, where he grew up in a family deeply connected to skiing. Despite facing challenges due to his slight build, which led to early doubts about his potential, Maier persevered. He worked as a bricklayer in the summer and a ski instructor in the winter while competing in local races, eventually gaining recognition for his talent.
Rise to Prominence
Maier made his World Cup debut in 1996 and quickly established himself as a formidable competitor. His breakthrough came in 1997 when he won his first World Cup event, a super-G race in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. By the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano, he had already begun to dominate the sport, winning two gold medals shortly after a dramatic crash.
Playing Style & Technique
Maier is known for his explosive speed and dynamic racing style, characterized by his strength and willingness to take risks. His work ethic and dedication to training set him apart from his competitors. His ability to recover from setbacks, including a near-fatal motorcycle accident, further solidified his reputation as one of the sport's toughest athletes.
Defining Moments & Achievements
Among Maier's most significant achievements are his two gold medals at the 1998 Winter Olympics and four overall World Cup titles. He also holds the record for 54 World Cup race victories, ranking third on the all-time list. His comeback from injury in 2004, where he reclaimed the super-G and overall titles, is often cited as one of the greatest comebacks in sports history.
Rivalries & Era Context
Competing during a golden era for alpine skiing, Maier faced off against notable rivals such as Bode Miller and Didier Cuche. These rivalries not only pushed Maier to excel but also contributed to the sport's popularity during the late 1990s and early 2000s. His dramatic races and charismatic personality helped elevate the profile of alpine skiing worldwide.
Legacy & Impact
Hermann Maier's impact on alpine skiing is profound, inspiring a new generation of skiers. His resilience and determination have made him a role model in sports, and his nickname 'The Herminator' reflects his indomitable spirit. Beyond skiing, he has engaged in various media and business ventures, further cementing his status as a sports icon.
Stats in detail
World Cup Results
Maier's World Cup career is marked by numerous victories and podium finishes across various disciplines.
| Total Wins | 54 |
| Downhill Wins | 15 |
| Super-G Wins | 24 |
| Giant Slalom Wins | 14 |
| Combined Wins | 1 |
Season Titles
Maier achieved remarkable success in the World Cup seasons, securing multiple titles.
| Overall Titles | 4 |
| Downhill Titles | 2 |
| Super-G Titles | 5 |
| Giant Slalom Titles | 3 |
Olympic Results
Maier's Olympic performances are highlighted by his gold medal victories.
| Gold Medals | 2 |
| Events Competed | 3 |
World Championship Results
Maier's success at the World Championships further established his legacy in alpine skiing.
| Total Titles | 3 |
| Gold Medals | 2 |
| Silver Medals | 1 |
Career timeline
1996Maier made his World Cup debut.
1998Won two gold medals at the Winter Olympics in Nagano.
2000Achieved a record 2000 points in the World Cup season.
2001Suffered a near-fatal motorcycle accident.
2004Made a successful comeback, winning the overall World Cup title.
2009Announced retirement from competitive skiing.
Head-to-Head
Hermann Maier career moments
- January 18: Maier finished second in the Kitzbühel's super-G, behind Marco Büchel and in front of Didier Cuche for a total
- February 10: Maier made his World Cup debut at age 23 on 10 February 1996, and finished 26th in the giant slalom at Hinters
- June 20: Maier announced he was switching to Head as his equipment sponsor, ending his long affiliation with Atomic.
Latest Maier News
All 49 stories →
Winter Sports · Player Focus
Hermann Maier stars in ORF special spotlighting Zillertal’s alpine charm
Winter Sports · Player Focus
Hermann Maier stars in new ZDF natural history special on Tuesday
Winter Sports · Player Focus
Hermann Maier films wild nature documentary after decades on ski slopes
Winter Sports · Club News
Hermann Maier Embarks on Thrilling Alpine Adventure in the Zillertaler Mountains
Winter Sports · Player Focus
Hermann Maier films for 'Universum' in Thayatal, Salzburg
Frequently asked
What is Hermann Maier's net worth?
Hermann Maier's estimated net worth is around $5 million.
How tall is Hermann Maier?
Hermann Maier is approximately 1.80 m (5 ft 11 in) tall.
How old is Hermann Maier?
Hermann Maier was born on December 7, 1972, making him 50 years old.
Is Hermann Maier retired or still active?
Hermann Maier is retired from competitive skiing.
United States
Austria