After surviving a nearly-fatal motorbike accident in August 2001, his career seemed to be over, but he finally succeeded in returning to the World Cup (January 2003).
Chosen Austria's Sportsman of the Year for four consecutive times between 1998 and 2001.
Austrian Alpine skier, winning four overall World Cup titles (1998, 2000, 2001, 2004), two Olympic titles (Giant slalom and Super G in 1998) and three World Championship titles.