Jasmin Holtermann, a 26-year-old member of Denmark's Olympic women's curling team, has retired with immediate effect after 12 years in the sport. The decision comes just ten days after Denmark's elimination from the Winter Olympics and weeks before the World Championships. Holtermann cited the need for more space in her busy life and the financial challenges of curling in Denmark.
Curling player Jasmin Holtermann, who competed for Denmark at the Winter Olympics, announced her retirement with immediate effect. The 26-year-old told TV2 Sport, "I can feel that I am ready to try something new in life," reflecting on her 12-year career in the sport.
Denmark's women's curling team exited the Olympic tournament before the semi-finals following a defeat to Switzerland, an event that occurred only ten days prior to Holtermann's announcement. With the World Championships approaching in just a few weeks, the impact on the team remains unclear. Skipper Madeleine Dupont stated via SMS to the media that the decision "does not change anything for the rest of the team." The remaining players, however, expressed hopes of securing financial support to continue competing at the top level.
Holtermann had discussed her potential career break with teammates several months before the Olympics. She explained the need for more calendar space amid a demanding daily routine, noting that it is impossible to make a living from curling in Denmark. Balancing her post-graduation work with the sport proved particularly challenging. Despite efforts by Madeleine Dupont and the rest of the team to persuade her otherwise, Holtermann proceeded with her retirement.
The Danish Olympic team also included Denise Dupont, Mathilde Halse, and My Larsen, alongside skipper Madeleine Dupont and Holtermann.
