There are plenty of legitimate reasons to take issue with the man, both as a human, and as a "representative" of freeskiing.
However, as someone who loves SPORTS, I have a lot of respect for the guy. He's an incredible competitor, as about hardworking and dedicated to skiing as anyone on the planet, and pushed the sport in more ways than just adding a 180 or an extra flip. He's a legend, period. To be on top of, or even near it, for over a decade in this sport is just absolutely mind blowing. This is the end of the era. If you look at the start lists at major comps from 02/03 and 12/13, he's the ONLY guy still out there killing it. The fact that he is still a threat to podium at the biggest events is pretty much unmatched by anyone else in the sport.
Not to mention, he's clocked some of the best and most notable shots ever filmed, all the while competing constantly. His style is ridiculously dialed, and I for one am sad to see him hang it up, but on the flipside, I'm really pumped to see him fully commit to skiing in front of a camera and pushing himself in other aspects. If he puts together a few years of skiing big mountains, he could do some incredible things. You can't question the guys edge control or willingness to go huge and fast...that's for damn sure.
So, I guess.....fuck yeah. Simon! You're a controversial figure in the sport, but you helped define it on the competition side of things, and you gave us some unforgettable moments along the way. Even though ESPN hyped it up obnoxiously, the battle against Tanner in 07 I think was truly a special moment in comp skiing. Best of luck to you, I'm sorry to see it come to an end like this, it would've been incredible to see you rep the US in Sochi.
