Eve Muirhead, the celebrated curling champion who recently guided Team GB to Olympic gold in Beijing, has decided to retire from the sport. At 32, Muirhead’s departure marks the end of an illustrious career that included European and world titles, culminating in the long-awaited Olympic victory earlier this year.
In her heartfelt retirement announcement, Muirhead described her decision as the most challenging of her life. Over 15 years of international competition and 21 major titles have defined her career, from the highs of becoming an Olympic champion to the lows that tested her resilience. Reflecting on her journey, Muirhead expressed immense pride in her achievements and the emotional rollercoaster she has experienced throughout her career.
Born in Perthshire, Muirhead was immersed in a world of sports from a young age. Her father, Gordon, was an international curler, and Eve herself excelled in both golf and bagpiping, performing at a high level in each. Her curling career began to shine when she secured gold at the 2007 World Junior Championships and continued with subsequent wins in Sweden and Vancouver.
Muirhead first made her mark at the Winter Olympics in Vancouver in 2010, leading Team GB through three round-robin victories but falling short of the semi-finals. Despite securing bronze in Sochi and a near-miss in Pyeongchang, the Olympic gold medal eluded her until Beijing 2022. Despite struggling with form leading up to the Games, including a disappointing eighth-place finish at the 2021 World Championships, her team overcame significant obstacles to claim victory. A thrilling semi-final win against Sweden and a decisive final against Japan finally brought the coveted gold.
In her retirement statement, Muirhead extended gratitude to her teammates, sponsors, and supporters, acknowledging the crucial role they played in her success. She expressed excitement for the future and hinted at exploring new opportunities, including a return to golf. As she steps away from competitive curling, Muirhead leaves behind a legacy of dedication and excellence in the sport.