Tragedy has befallen the winter sports community as OLYMPIC snowboarder Sophie Hediger has died at just 26 years old.

Hediger tragically lost her life on Monday in an avalanche at the Arosa ski resort in Switzerland.

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A devoted member of Switzerland’s national snowboard cross team, Hediger represented her country at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing.

In the 2023-24 season, she attained her first two podium finishes in the World Cup.

Walter Reusser, the CEO of Swiss-Ski, conveyed their heartfelt condolences, expressing: “We are left in shock, and our thoughts are with Sophie’s family, to whom we extend our sincerest sympathies.”

“For the Swiss-Ski community, Sophie’s untimely passing has brought a heavy sorrow over the impending Christmas season. Our grief is immeasurable.”

The FIS Snowboard World Championships are set to take place in St Moritz this March.

Earlier in January, Hediger notably secured a second-place finish at an event in St Moritz.

At the time of her passing, she was in a loving relationship with Swiss ice hockey player Dario Wuthrich.

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The HC Ambri Piotta club conveyed their deepest regrets regarding Hediger’s passing.

They posted on X: “The Ambrì-Piotta Hockey Club stands in solidarity with Dario Wuthrich as we mourn the sudden and devastating loss of his cherished partner Sophie.”

“Our hearts go out to Sophie’s family and Dario, embracing them with love from our entire white and blue community.”

Fellow Swiss Olympic snowboarder Jan Scherrer shared his sorrow on Instagram, saying: “This news breaks my heart. We’ll never forget you, Sophie.

“Please everyone, stay safe out there!”

Fans have also flooded social media with messages of support and condolences.

One commenter wrote: “Such a tragedy. My thoughts are with her family.”

Another said: “This is incredibly heartbreaking.”

A third user added: “May she find eternal peace.”

Another expressed: “Sending prayers for her family.”