British alpine skiing legend Dave Ryding is being tipped to conclude his illustrious Winter Olympic career with a triumphant performance at the upcoming Milan-Cortina 2026 Games. The veteran athlete, aged 39, will compete in his fifth and final Olympic appearance, striving to surpass his career-best ninth-place finish achieved in PyeongChang eight years ago.
A Storied Career Nearing Its Climax
Ryding, affectionately known as 'The Rocket', made history by becoming the first British alpine skier to secure World Cup victory in Kitzbuhel during the lead-up to the Beijing 2022 Olympics, where he placed thirteenth. His remarkable consistency was further demonstrated last year when he achieved Britain's best men's World Championship result since 1934, finishing sixth in Austria.
His Olympic journey began at Vancouver 2010 with a twenty-seventh place slalom finish, followed by three consecutive top-twenty performances in Sochi, PyeongChang, and Beijing. This final campaign represents his ultimate opportunity to secure an Olympic medal.
Vocal Support from a Former Rival
German skiing star Fritz Dopfer, a two-time World Championship medallist and former competitor against Ryding, has expressed strong confidence in the British skier's capabilities. Dopfer, who is currently working as an analyst for TNT Sports during their live Games coverage, shared his insights about his long-term friend.
"Dave is a really good friend of mine," Dopfer revealed. "I've skied with him numerous times and we talk frequently. He's a tremendous personality and an excellent competitor – I genuinely hope he performs at his absolute peak during these Games."
Dopfer emphasized Ryding's strategic advantages, noting: "His extensive experience allows him to navigate challenging situations effectively. When course conditions demand precise, intelligent skiing, Dave ranks among the elite contenders. I'll be cheering wholeheartedly for his success."
Leading the British Alpine Charge
Ryding will captain a three-member British men's alpine team in the Italian Alps, joined by teammates Billy Major and Laurie Taylor, both twenty-nine years old. Dopfer praised the squad's dynamic, observing: "They exhibit exceptional team spirit. Dave naturally assumes leadership, while Laurie and Billy motivate each other to excel during every training session."
"They serve as inspirational figures for athletes everywhere," he continued. "Despite facing significant challenges, they've cultivated a genuinely successful team environment. I anticipate outstanding performances from all competitors, with particular hopes that the British team can leverage their strengths to contend for podium positions."
The Final Olympic Chapter
As Ryding prepares for his valedictory Olympic appearance, the skiing community watches with anticipation. His combination of technical skill, competitive experience, and strategic intelligence positions him as a genuine medal prospect in what promises to be an emotionally charged conclusion to his Olympic journey.
British sports fans can follow all the action through TNT Sports on discovery+, which will provide comprehensive live coverage of Milano Cortina 2026. The broadcast will feature over 850 hours of content spanning every sport, venue, and medal event throughout the Games.
