I was a top skiing star – now I’m making my way in new job after sporting career ended in tears aged just 23

LUCAS BRAATHEN has made a complete career change after retiring from skiing.

The Norweigan was a top slalom skier and won the event's World Cup in 2023 but announced his retirement in October.

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Braathen, 23, admitted to feeling "free" by his decision as he hung up his skis just a couple of days before the World Cup started again in Soelden, Austria.

He said: "I am a person that has always followed my own dreams and what makes me the happiest.

"For the first time in at least half a year, I’m happy after making this decision.

"For the first time in years, I feel free."

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During the press conference in which he made the announcement, Braathen was clearly emotional as he could be seen wiping away tears.

He has now switched careers and is stunning a different type of crowd as a male model.

Braathen took the catwalk at Fashion Week in Copenhagen, Denmark earlier this month for his modelling debut.

He had ditched the ski wear and goggles for a long coat and pink trousers.

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The former skier was not shy as he showed off his muscular torso.

His look was completed with slicked-back hair and a chain necklace.

He was modelling for the sports brand J. Lindeberg as part of Clubhouse FW24.

Lindebeg design boss Neil Lewty was full of praise for Braathen as he strutted his stuff.

Lewty told Vogue: "He is a self-confident, young man.

"He’s an athlete, has a certain body and loves to wear pink pants."

The designer insisted that Braathen was the "perfect guy to close the show" and is hoping he will continue to model.

He added: "It’s exciting for him and I can see that excitement in his eyes.

"With that confidence, I think he still has a long way to go. He will definitely be a champion."

Braathen has built up a large fanbase on social media with 171k followers on Instagram.

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He often keeps his followers up to date with his antics whether that will be hitting the slopes or posting about his fashion.

He also posts about his time in ski lodges including a video of himself dancing with Austrian singer and actor Hansi Hinterseer.

Braathen's ski career

Lucas Braathen had a short but successful ski career.

• Seasons x 5 (2019 - 2023)
• Disciplines - Slalom and Giant Slalom
• Giant Slalom race wins x 3
• Giant Slalom podiums x 2
• Slalom race wins x 3
• Slalom podiums x 5
• Olympic appearances x 1 (2022)