Marco Odermatt, the Swiss Alpine skiing sensation, owes much of his extraordinary success to the support and guidance of his parents, Priska and Walti Odermatt.
Born on October 8, 1997, in Buochs, Switzerland, Marco was introduced to skiing at the tender age of two.
His father, Walti, a skier himself, was the first to guide him down the slopes, instilling both skill and a love for the sport that would shape Marco’s life.
From an early age, Marco’s parents encouraged his passion for skiing while maintaining a healthy balance with life outside the sport.
Priska played a central role in supporting the family and managing daily life, allowing Walti to coach Marco without distraction.
Together, they created an environment where their son could thrive. Marco continues to acknowledge his parents’ influence after every race, a testament to the lasting impact of their guidance.
Marco grew up in Buochs with his parents and sister Alina, surrounded by the scenic landscapes of central Switzerland that have been home to the Odermatt family for over 600 years.
This close-knit family environment allowed Marco to stay grounded even as his skiing career soared.
His father meticulously tracked every day Marco spent on skis—from his first race at age four to professional training sessions—ensuring that each step of his development was recorded and evaluated.
Thanks to this early and consistent support, Marco quickly rose through the ranks of junior skiing.
By age ten, he joined the Nidwalden Ski Association’s youth squad, setting the stage for a remarkable career.
His junior achievements culminated in 2018 when he became the first skier to win gold in all five disciplines at the Junior World Championships.
These victories, along with his Olympic gold in Beijing 2022 and multiple World Cup titles, reflect not only Marco’s talent but also the foundation laid by his parents.
Beyond professional skiing, Marco’s parents instilled values that shaped his character. As Marco himself explains,
“Skiing was important, but they always told me there were more important things in life.”
This balance between dedication to sport and personal well-being has allowed Marco to approach competitions with focus, composure, and determination.
Today, as Marco Odermatt prepares for the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics and continues to dominate the World Cup circuit, his parents remain central to his life.
Living at home in Buochs, he enjoys the support of Priska and Walti while pursuing his dream, a reminder that behind every great athlete is a family that nurtures, challenges, and inspires.
