His 25th Four Hills Tournament: Ammann is still popular with fans and opponents

class=”sc-cffd1e67-0 fmXrkB”>

While most people take it easy during the holidays, ski jumpers really have to push themselves to the limit. The Four Hills Tournament traditionally takes place during the New Year. This year for the 72nd time. Unbelievable but true: Simon Ammann (42) will be at the start again this year – for the 25th time – when the tour starts again on December 29 at the large Schattenbergschanze in Oberstdorf (De), Bavaria.

The hype surrounding Ammann has not stopped in his 27th season. At the home jumping in Engelberg OW in mid-December he signed a number of autographs, even on the thigh of a naked woman. The German journalists from SWR present called him the ‘Robbie Williams of the modern era’, also amazed by his appeal. But Ammann is still not only popular with fans. The other athletes – often much younger – also see Toggenburg as a role model.

“You can listen to Simon”

This is how Austrian Stefan Kraft (30), who won one of the two World Cup matches in Engelberg, laughs when asked about him. «Simon Ammann, Janne Ahonen and Thomas Morgenstern were my great idols as a child. When I was new to the ski jumping circus as a young guy, he was very open and approachable.” Kraft describes Ammann as a likeable, funny guy who only has positive things to say about him. And the Austrian adds: “Hats off to how some of them are still jumping today. That’s still amazing.”

The Norwegian Marius Lindvik (25) sounds similar, albeit slightly less detailed. He is a “great guy”, a great guy. And it’s ‘crazy’ that he still takes part in competitions. However, the Olympic champion and world ski flying champion does not know much more about Simi. Who can blame him? After all, the two come from two different generations.

On the other hand, Stefan Kraft finds even more words of praise. Although Simon Ammann is no longer at the top, the two-time Olympic champion makes an important contribution to all athletes with his tirelessness: “Especially when we have meetings with the FIS, we can always rely on him.” Amman is extremely involved. Stefan Kraft says no one can come close to the experience he has gained in 27 years. And adds: “You can listen to Simon.”

Source : Blick