One of the world’s top curling skips has announced he is embarking on his final curling season.
Canada’s Brad Gushue of St. John’s NL announced his decision on Wednesday evening, just shy of 7:00 p.m. Newfoundland time.
The announcement came via a video posted on Team Gushue’s social media sites.
The two-time Olympic medallist – champion back in 2006 – world champion and multiple Brier winner will be available on Thursday during a virtual media scrum hosted by Curling Canada.
“I wanted to announce that this will be my final year in competitive curling,” said Gushue.
“Years ago, I created a list of goals I wanted to achieve, and I feel like I’m among the lucky few who can say they’ve achieved them. That’s given me the confidence to make this decision now. To leave on a high note with no regrets, no challenge left unanswered and no expectation unmet.
“For me, this is about my family and my team. My wife and daughters are important to me, and I’ve missed enough milestones to know I don’t want to miss any more. For my team, your commitment, friendship, and drive are what made all this possible for me. I know this decision impacts you the most, both on and off the ice.
Gushue briefly spoke to his future goals away from centre ice.
“As to what is next, I’d love to stay connected to the sport in some way. And I’m even more excited to explore new opportunities off the ice.
“This has not been an easy decision,” admitted the 45-year-old. “I love curling. It’s been my passion since I first stepped on the ice and played my first end. I’ve struggled with leaving it all behind. Curling is a game I love, lots of ups and downs, sometimes all in a single game. I’ll miss it more than I can express.
“Thank you for being part of this, for cheering loudest and longest, for your unwavering support.” Gushue continued. “I can only make a decision like this hoping I’ve never let you down. Curling has given me so much. I’ve had the chance to travel the world. I’ve had so many opportunities, but there’s still a season ahead of us.
“Our team is ready to go, and we’re ready to leave it all on the ice.”
Team Gushue will travel to Toronto and London, ON a few days ahead of their first tournament of the season.
The Masters, the first Grand Slam event of 2025-26, begins on Sept. 23 in London. Gushue, Mark Nichols, Brendan Bottcher and Geoff Walker will take on Italy’s Jöel Retornaz in their opening match, scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET.