Austria’s new ski jumping star? Niklas Bachlinger impresses and eyes World Cup debut this winter

Austria’s Niklas Bachlinger is emerging as one of the most exciting discoveries in ski jumping. The 23-year-old from WSV Schoppernau is coming off the best summer of his career and, heading into the final phase of the 2025 Summer Grand Prix, remains in the fight for the overall title.

Bachlinger, born in December 2001, had been viewed as a solid junior for several seasons, but this year’s SGP series marked a real breakthrough. In July, he won the season-opening competition in Wisła and then maintained strong form, regularly placing near the front. As a result, he arrives at the Hinterzarten finals as one of the series leaders.

Signs of his potential had appeared in previous seasons. While on Austria’s B team, he collected promising Continental Cup results but lacked consistency. This year he made a clear step forward—refining his takeoff mechanics and significantly improving leg strength—improvements praised by national head coach Andreas Widhoelzl.

For Austria, his progress is timely. After years led by stars like Stefan Kraft and Manuel Fettner, the team is seeking its next standard-bearer. Observers note that Bachlinger combines strong physical attributes with composure in difficult conditions and growing international experience. If he sustains this level, Austrian media expect him to debut in the World Cup in December and possibly become one of the new faces of Austrian ski jumping as early as this winter.