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Curling world salutes retired Martin

It was a storybook ending to a legendary career for Kevin Martin and the curling world was out in full force to salute the “Old Bear” on social media.

A number of curlers from former teammates to frequent competitors also shared their thoughts with thegrandslamofcurling.com during the weekend as Martin captured one final Grand Slam title at the Players’ Championship.

David Nedohin, former teammate:

“He’s obviously going to be missed by the curling fans. He’ll be around in different aspects, of course, with the Grand Slams but he’ll be missed by the curlers and the curling fans watching him on the ice. He’s been one of the best for a very long time.”

Brad Jacobs, who played against Martin in the finale:

“I thought about it last night and it’s pretty neat. Who would have thought it would be our team? Definitely would have thought it would be (Glenn) Howard or (Jeff) Stoughton or someone like that but it’s something we’ll remember for sure, playing Martin the last game and he really wanted to win … It was a really fun game.”

Nolan Thiessen, former Team Koe lead:

“He’s probably the best ever, if not he’s on the Mount Rushmore of the best curlers ever. I guess because I’m playing next year I’m glad he’s gone [laughs]. One less amazing skip to battle against.”

Brent Laing, former Team Howard second:

“You can’t say enough about Kevin Martin. I was talking to Jennifer (Jones) after the first game against Kevin this week and saying that that might have been the last one and I’ll really miss that. I don’t know how many times we’ve played him, 40 or 50, but he’s certainly gotten the better of us more than we’ve got him. At the Slams we’ve done well but over at the Brier he’s just had our number over and over. I’ve never lost so many games and enjoyed it against him because they’re such great games and you never know what’s going to happen, so many great shots. It’s hard to pick a best player of all time but if you don’t mention Kevin Martin, you’re missing the point.”

Jeff Stoughton, frequent opponent:

“Kevin and I first really started playing against each other, I guess, in the 1991 Brier, which is a long time ago. He won that Brier and he’s been to multiple, I have as well, and he’s just a fiery competitor, no doubt probably the best that ever was. It’ll be a wait to see if anyone can match what he’s done.”

April 8-13, 2025 Mattamy Athletic Centre Toronto, ON