MILAN, Italy — South Korean short track speed skater Choi Min-jeong announced her retirement from Olympic competition on Saturday, following a silver medal performance in the women’s 1,500 meters at the Milan-Cortina Winter Games. The announcement came less than 24 hours after she secured her seventh career Olympic medal, making her the most decorated South Korean Olympian in history.
Choi, 27, confirmed her decision at a press conference held at Korea House in Milan, stating, “It is certain that this is the last Olympics.” She indicated she would not compete in future Olympic Games, bringing an finish to a celebrated career spanning three Olympic appearances, beginning with the 2018 Pyeongchang Games.
At the 2026 Milan Games, Choi contributed to a gold medal in the 3000m relay and added a silver in the 1500m, surpassing the previous record of six Olympic medals held jointly by Jin Jong-oh (shooting), Kim Soo-nyeong (archery), and Lee Seung-hoon (speed skating).
The announcement followed a surprising victory by teammate Kim Gil-li in the 1500m final, where she edged out Choi for the gold. Kim expressed her appreciation for Choi’s leadership and dedication, stating, “Min-jeong worked really hard as our team captain this season. It was an honor to be able to play in the Olympics with her. I think it was a truly unforgettable memory.”
Choi’s path to Olympic glory was not without challenges. She faced criticism and controversy throughout her career, including a period of conflict with fellow skater Shim Suk-hee. She also endured a season away from the national team in 2023-2024 due to injury, and struggled to regain peak performance leading up to the Milan Games.
A handwritten letter from Choi’s mother, shared on the International Olympic Committee’s official Instagram channel, provided insight into the emotional toll of her career. Her mother wrote, acknowledging the sacrifices and hardships Choi endured, and expressing pride in her daughter’s accomplishments, stating that Choi was “already the gold medal of [her] life.” Choi acknowledged the letter’s impact, saying it helped her “pull herself together” and finish the Olympics strong.
Lee So-yeon, the senior member of the South Korean short track team at 32, praised Choi’s perform ethic and leadership, adding, “In fact, I think she could do more [continue competing]. I recognize it’s very difficult, so I want to support Min-jeong’s choice and tell her that she worked hard.”
Shim Suk-hee, who has had a complex relationship with Choi, also expressed gratitude for her teammate’s efforts, particularly in the relay event, acknowledging the burden of responsibility Choi carried as captain.
Choi Min-jeong has not yet clarified whether she will continue her career as a professional athlete outside of Olympic competition, stating she will “think more about” her future plans.
