Jennifer Jones, one of the most decorated figures in the sport of curling, has announced her retirement from women’s team curling at the end of the 2024 season, marking the end of an era in the sport. Her final competition was at the Princess Auto Players’ Championship, where she and her team faced off against Sweden in the final round-robin draw. Although Jones did not win her final match, her career is defined by triumphs and remarkable consistency, making her one of the most successful athletes in the history of curling.
Jones’ decision to retire comes with a personal reason at its core: a desire to spend more time with her daughters, Isla and Skyla. She expressed that, while she had enjoyed an illustrious career on the ice, she wanted to be more physically present in her children’s lives. Jones said that the idea of practicing spelling words over FaceTime was no longer enough for her, signaling that her priorities had shifted toward family life. This heartfelt decision resonates with many athletes who, after years of intense commitment to their sport, seek a balance between career and family.
Throughout her career, Jones has left an indelible mark on the sport of curling. Her Olympic gold medal in 2014, achieved alongside teammates Kaitlyn Lawes, Jill Officer, and Dawn McEwen, solidified her place in curling history. That win, in particular, remains one of the most significant moments in Canadian sports history, as Jones became the first woman to skip a team to Olympic gold in curling. Beyond the Olympics, Jones also won multiple Canadian and World Curling Championships, with her first world title coming in 2008. These accolades, coupled with her countless national titles and high-profile victories, have cemented her legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
As Jones steps away from competition, her team will undergo a major change. Chelsea Carey, a two-time Canadian champion in her own right, will replace Jones as the skip of the team. Carey, who has a wealth of experience and success at the highest levels of curling, will lead a talented squad consisting of Lauren Lenentine, Emily Zacharias, and Karlee Burgess. Carey’s appointment signals a new chapter for the team, and many are eager to see how she will guide the squad in the coming seasons. While it will be difficult to replace a legend like Jones, Carey’s pedigree and leadership will no doubt ensure the team remains competitive.
Jones’ retirement marks the end of an era, but it also opens the door for new stories and new stars in the sport. Her contributions to curling have been immeasurable, and her influence on the game, both on and off the ice, will continue to be felt for years to come. As she moves into this new phase of her life, Jones leaves behind a legacy of excellence, sportsmanship, and inspiration for the next generation of curlers. Her decision to prioritize her family is a testament to her values and a reminder that even the greatest athletes are first and foremost people with lives outside of their sport.
