The 5 most famous Curling Players

Jennifer Jones (Canada)
Jennifer Jones is widely regarded as one of the most dominant figures in women’s curling history. She became a household name in Canada through her remarkable consistency at the highest level of competition. Jones is known for her calm demeanor on the ice, even in moments where championships are decided by a single stone. Her leadership as a skip helped redefine what long-term excellence looks like in curling. Unlike many elite players, she managed to stay at the top across multiple generations of competitors. Jones also played a major role in raising the visibility of women’s curling on television and in mainstream sports media. Her strategic approach emphasized precision and patience rather than risky, highlight-reel shots. Teammates often credit her with creating a culture of trust and preparation. Beyond medals, her influence can be seen in the number of young curlers who cite her as a role model. Even late in her career, she continued to adapt her style to remain competitive. Jennifer Jones’s legacy is not just about winning, but about setting a standard for professionalism in curling.

Kevin Martin (Canada)
Kevin Martin earned the nickname “The Old Bear” because of his relentless competitiveness and mental toughness. He was known for his ability to grind out wins in long, exhausting matches where focus mattered more than flair. Martin’s delivery was famously controlled, making him one of the most reliable shooters of his era. He excelled in pressure situations, often saving his best performances for playoff games. Over time, he became a symbol of consistency in Canadian men’s curling. Martin also played an important role in the evolution of fitness and preparation within the sport. He treated curling like a high-performance athletic pursuit long before that mindset was common. Off the ice, he was respected for his sportsmanship and thoughtful commentary on the game. After retiring, he transitioned smoothly into broadcasting, helping fans better understand strategy. His insights brought curling tactics to a wider audience. Kevin Martin remains a benchmark against which many modern skips are measured.

Brad Gushue (Canada)
Brad Gushue is best known for bringing Olympic gold to Canada in men’s curling for the first time in decades. His success helped solidify curling’s place as a marquee Olympic sport in the country. Gushue’s style is characterized by aggressive shot-making and confidence in tight angles. He is willing to take calculated risks when the situation demands it. Over the years, he has shown an ability to rebuild teams while maintaining elite performance. That adaptability has allowed him to stay relevant as the competitive field has grown deeper. Gushue is also admired for his emotional intelligence as a leader. He knows when to push his teammates and when to give them space. Fans often praise his honesty in interviews, especially after tough losses. He has been a strong advocate for athlete funding and professionalization. Brad Gushue represents the modern era of curling, where skill, psychology, and preparation intersect.

Eve Muirhead (Scotland)
Eve Muirhead became a global star at a remarkably young age. She was already competing against seasoned veterans while still in her teens. Muirhead’s competitive fire set her apart early in her career. She is known for her expressive reactions on the ice, which made her relatable to fans. As a skip, she balances emotional intensity with sharp tactical awareness. Muirhead also played a major role in elevating Scottish and British women’s curling on the world stage. Her teams were often praised for their resilience in comeback situations. She embraced the pressure of being a national figure rather than shying away from it. Off the ice, she has spoken openly about mental health and athlete well-being. That honesty helped change conversations within the sport. Eve Muirhead’s impact extends beyond medals to cultural influence within curling.

Anette Norberg (Sweden)
Anette Norberg is often cited as one of the greatest skips in curling history, regardless of gender. Her teams were known for their near-flawless execution in major finals. Norberg’s calm presence made even the most difficult shots look routine. She excelled at reading ice conditions faster than her opponents. This gave her teams a strategic advantage throughout tournaments. Norberg was also exceptional at building long-term team chemistry. Her lineups stayed together longer than most, which translated into consistency. She played a pivotal role in establishing Sweden as a curling powerhouse. Many analysts point to her as a masterclass in tactical patience. She rarely forced the game when control was enough. Anette Norberg’s career is often used as a teaching example for aspiring skips worldwide.