Austrian biathlete Lisa Theresa Hauser, who made headlines as a world champion, has announced her retirement from competitive biathlon. The 32-year-old athlete will mark the final stage of the current World Cup season in Oslo as her last professional appearance. Hauser achieved significant accolades throughout her career including a gold medal in the mass start at the 2021 World Championships in Pokljuka, along with silver medals in the pursuit and mixed relay events. In addition to her World Championship victories, Hauser's impressive performance also earned her six stage wins in the World Cup series, the latest being in December in Östersund.

Reflecting on her career, Hauser expressed gratitude for the incredible moments she experienced over 15 years, saying that biathlon has been a significant part of her life. She mentioned how she cherished the competitions against some of the best athletes in the world, as well as the meaningful relationships forged throughout her journey. However, Hauser acknowledged the physical and mental demands of the sport and feels that it is the right time to say goodbye as she looks to the next chapter of her life away from the stressful environment of competitive sports.

The announcement of her retirement comes at a time when biathlon continues to grow in popularity, and Hauser's legacy will likely inspire both current and future athletes. Her contributions to the sport and the achievements she garnered make her not only a celebrated athlete but also a key figure in promoting biathlon on the international stage. As she steps back, her influence will remain, and many in the biathlon community are recognizing her achievements and celebrating a remarkable career.