Rachel Homan Announces She’s Stepping Away from Competitive Curling to Chase New Dreams

In a move that has left fans and the curling world in shock, Olympic gold medalist and multiple-time Canadian champion Rachel Homan has announced that she will be stepping away from competitive curling to pursue other personal and professional goals. The 34-year-old Ottawa native made the emotional announcement in a press conference earlier today, revealing that after much reflection, she has decided it is time to focus on the next chapter of her life.

“I’ve always said that curling is my passion, and it has been such an incredible part of my life. But after a lot of soul-searching and conversations with my family, I’ve come to the difficult decision that it’s time for me to step away from competitive curling,” Homan said, fighting back tears. “There are other dreams and opportunities I want to explore, and now feels like the right time to take that leap.”

Homan, who was widely regarded as one of the most successful and talented curlers of her generation, has had a career filled with accolades. She became a household name in Canadian curling after leading her team to victory at the 2017 Scotties Tournament of Hearts, earning her first national championship. Homan would go on to represent Canada at the 2018 Winter Olympics, where she claimed the gold medal in women’s curling, solidifying her place in Canadian sporting history.

With a career full of triumphs—including multiple Scotties titles, World Curling Championship wins, and a spot in the top rankings of the World Curling Tour—Homan’s decision to retire from the sport has shocked many.

“This isn’t a decision I’ve made lightly,” Homan continued in her statement. “Curling has given me everything: lifelong friendships, unforgettable moments, and the thrill of competing at the highest level. But as much as I love the game, I feel I’m ready to take on new challenges and explore passions outside the rink.”

Throughout her career, Homan became known not just for her exceptional skill on the ice, but for her leadership and determination. Her team, including longtime teammates Emma Miskew, Lisa Weagle, and Joanne Courtney, consistently achieved success under her captaincy, and the group was one of the most formidable in the sport’s history. Homan’s curling style, characterized by her precision and strategic brilliance, made her a fan favorite and an inspiration to younger curlers across the country.

While many will undoubtedly feel the void left by her departure, Homan expressed that she’s not entirely leaving the curling world behind. She plans to remain involved in the sport as a mentor and advocate, helping to grow the game and inspire the next generation of players.

“I’ll always love curling, and I want to stay connected to the sport,” Homan said. “But for now, I’m ready to step into a new phase of my life. I’m excited to see where this journey takes me.”

Though details of her next steps remain private, sources close to Homan indicate she’s exploring opportunities in business, coaching, and perhaps even community-focused initiatives. Her decision has prompted an outpouring of support from the curling community, with fellow athletes, coaches, and fans expressing their gratitude for her contributions to the sport.

“Rachel has been a trailblazer in Canadian curling, and we’re all so proud of everything she’s accomplished,” said Wendy Morgan, CEO of Curling Canada. “Her legacy in the sport is undeniable, and we know she’ll continue to inspire and impact the curling community in new ways as she moves forward.”

For now, Homan’s legacy remains firmly etched in the history of Canadian curling. As she embarks on a new adventure, her fans and teammates will no doubt continue to cheer her on, wherever her dreams may take her.