Thomas Ulsrud was a Norwegian curler born on October 21, 1971, who became one of the most recognizable figures in international curling.
He grew up in Norway and developed a passion for the sport at a young age, eventually rising through national competition to represent his country on the world stage.
Known for his calm presence and precise shot-making, he earned respect from teammates and opponents across many seasons.
Achievements and legacy
Ulsrud became best known internationally as the skip of the Norwegian team that won the silver medal at the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Games.
His team gained attention for their skill and also for their colourful trousers, which made them popular with fans around the world. He competed in multiple Olympic Games, including 2010 Sochi and 2018 PyeongChang, finishing fifth and sixth, respectively.
Over his career, he appeared in twelve world championships, earning bronze medals in 2006, 2008, and 2009 and later capturing a world title in 2014 in Beijing, followed by a silver medal in 2015 in Halifax.
He also achieved great success in European championships, reaching the podium eleven times in seventeen appearances and winning gold in 2010 and 2011. Colleagues often described him as a joyful presence who brought energy to the sport and helped raise the global profile of curling.
Ulsrud was diagnosed with cancer in December 2020 and continued to battle the illness until his death on May 24, 2022, at the age of fifty.
According to statements from his team and the World Curling Federation, he spent his final period surrounded by close family and teammates who described his passing as sudden after his condition worsened in the last week. He is survived by his wife Elin and his son Jesper.
News of his death prompted widespread tributes from the curling community and sports figures around the world. Many highlighted his sportsmanship, humor, and the unique personality that helped make curling more visible to global audiences.
Former opponents and teammates noted that he was both highly competitive and warmly approachable, always willing to share a smile or conversation even in high-pressure competition.
Leaders in the sport emphasized that his influence extended beyond medals and championships as he helped inspire a new generation of curlers in Norway and beyond.
His legacy remains tied to his achievements on ice and his role in popularizing curling during some of its most-watched Olympic moments.
Across his career, Ulsrud competed in twelve world championships and seventeen European championships, building a reputation as one of Norway’s most influential curling leaders.
His ability to guide teams under pressure and read complex ice conditions made him a respected skip throughout his career.
Beyond competition, he contributed to the growth of curling through his engaging personality and consistent presence at major tournaments. Fans remembered him for his colourful trousers, which became a symbol of his relaxed and entertaining approach to the sport.
Even after retirement, discussions about his impact continued within the curling community as his achievements remained a benchmark for Norwegian athletes. His story is often cited as an example of dedication, perseverance, and passion for sport at the highest level.
His influence continues to be felt strongly within curling circles, where his name remains associated with excellence and sportsmanship, a legacy of worldwide admiration.
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