Greek-American slalom specialist AJ Ginnis closed the chapter on an inspiring career with a ceremonial final descent at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, marking his retirement from competitive alpine skiing.
The 31-year-old, who overcame repeated knee injuries—including multiple surgeries—chose the Olympic slalom as his symbolic goodbye rather than a competitive push. Battling complications from recent procedures that prevented a return to elite form, Ginnis glided down the course in Bormio with gratitude rather than aggression, earning applause from crowds and fellow athletes alike.
“It’s not about the clock or results tomorrow,” Ginnis shared in a heartfelt social media message ahead of the race. “It’s about gratitude. It’s about respect for the sport that shaped my life.”
Ginnis leaves behind a trailblazing legacy for Greece. In 2023, he claimed a historic silver medal in slalom at the FIS Alpine World Ski Championships in Courchevel-Méribel—Greece’s first-ever medal in alpine skiing at a World Championships or Olympics-level event in snow sports. Weeks earlier, he had become the nation’s first skier to podium on the World Cup circuit with a runner-up finish in Chamonix.
A former U.S. Ski Team member who switched allegiance to represent his Greek heritage, Ginnis brought technical precision and resilience to the slopes, inspiring a new generation in a country better known for sun and sea than snow.
Thank you for the memories and for carrying Greece further than ever on snow, AJ. Your passion and perseverance will endure. 🇬🇷✨
