Tomba's Second Act: From Ski Legend to Wine Connoisseur

Italian skiing legend Alberto Tomba, 59, has found a new passion in wine, curating a cellar of 2,500 bottles. His legendary career, marked by three Olympic gold medals, saw him dubbed 'Tomba la Bomba' for his aggressive style and charismatic personality. Tomba's fame once superseded national events, with broadcasters pausing Italy's song competition to air his races. He famously declared himself the "new messiah of skiing" and lived an extravagant lifestyle, embodying Italy's late 1980s spirit. Nearly four decades after his initial ascent, Tomba is enjoying a resurgence in public life as Italy hosts the 2026 Winter Games. He is featured on the covers of GQ Italia and a Cortina magazine, promoting his book, 'The Longest Slalom,' and fronting campaigns for streaming services and luxury brands. Despite his post-skiing endeavors, including a brief acting career and house flipping, Tomba harbors some grievances about his post-athletic life. He maintains a close relationship with his mother, Maria Grazia Dalla Mora, and finds peace in his vineyards and with his devoted fans. Tomba even visited the headquarters of his fan club, 'Tombaland,' a space dedicated to preserving his legacy and celebrating his achievements. His transition from a skiing icon to a wine aficionado highlights a complex and evolving persona, far removed from his 'party animal' image.