Ever wondered who dominates the icy lanes with a broom and a rock?
From precision slides to strategic sweeps, these 15 titans of curling set the pebbled ice ablaze.
Buckle up as we spin the stone through the storied careers of the grandmasters of the game.
Best Curlers:
- Glenn Howard
- Kevin Martin
- Jennifer Jones
- Russ Howard
- Brad Gushue
- Anette Norberg
- Randy Ferbey
- Eve Muirhead
- Colleen Jones
- Niklas Edin
- Scott Pfeifer
- Al Hackner
- Rachel Homan
- Elisabet Gustafson
- Kerry Burtnyk
Table of Contents
#1 Glenn Howard
- 🌍 Nationality: Canadian
- 🎂 Date of Birth: July 17, 1962
- 🥌 Position/Role: Skip
- 🏆 Career Highlights: Four-time World Champion, Four-time Brier Champion, 15 Grand Slam titles
Known as one of the most precise shot-makers in curling, Glenn Howard’s strategic brilliance and consistency have defined his career. His nickname, “The Master,” denotes his significant contributions to the sport, especially in shot-making and strategy.
Howard has not only garnered respect as a player but also as a coach and builder of the sport. Despite the continuous evolution of curling, Howard has maintained an elite level of competition over several decades, solidifying his legacy. Off the ice, he works in the beer industry and supports charitable causes through various curling events.
#2 Kevin Martin
- 🌍 Nationality: Canadian
- 🎂 Date of Birth: July 31, 1966
- 🥌 Position/Role: Skip
- 🏆 Career Highlights: Olympic Gold Medalist (2010), World Champion (2008), Four-time Brier Champion, 18 Grand Slam titles
“The Old Bear,” as Kevin Martin is affectionately called, is renowned for his aggressive playing style and remarkable shot-making abilities. He revolutionized the game with his innovative strategies and is considered one of the greatest skips in the history of curling.
Martin’s career is marked by both exceptional victories and heartbreaking Olympic defeats, painting a picture of a resilient competitor. His post-retirement involvement as a commentator and ambassador demonstrates his dedication to advancing curling. Outside of sport, Martin has ventured into business, opening his curling supply store.
#3 Jennifer Jones
- 🌍 Nationality: Canadian
- 🎂 Date of Birth: July 7, 1974
- 🥌 Position/Role: Skip
- 🏆 Career Highlights: Olympic Gold Medalist (2014), Two-time World Champion, Six-time Scotties Tournament of Hearts Champion
Jennifer Jones, a dominant force in women’s curling, is renowned for her competitiveness and outstanding shot-making precision. Her ability to remain cool under pressure has earned her the nickname “Ice Queen.”
Jones has overcome various challenges, including returning to elite competition after becoming a mother. Her success has increased the visibility of women’s curling globally. Off the ice, she is a lawyer and is involved in charitable initiatives, demonstrating her leadership in professional and community endeavors.
#4 Russ Howard
- 🌍 Nationality: Canadian
- 🎂 Date of Birth: February 19, 1956
- 🥌 Position/Role: Second, Skip (previously)
- 🏆 Career Highlights: Two-time World Champion, Two-time Brier Champion, Olympic Gold Medalist (2006)
Russ Howard, known for his vocal presence on the ice, has an illustrious curling legacy that includes the invention of the “Free Guard Zone” rule, earning him the nickname “The Innovator.” His career is marked by his adaptability, transitioning successfully from skip to second later in his career.
Howard’s contributions to curling strategy and his role in popularizing the sport are undeniable. Post-retirement, Howard works as a broadcaster and continues to impact the curling community. His charitable work includes supporting cancer research, echoing his off-ice commitment to giving back.
#5 Brad Gushue
- 🌍 Nationality: Canadian
- 🎂 Date of Birth: June 16, 1980
- 🥌 Position/Role: Skip
- 🏆 Career Highlights: Olympic Gold Medalist (2006), World Champion (2017), Three-time Brier Champion
Brad Gushue’s name is synonymous with curling excellence in Canada, particularly known for his technical proficiency and leadership as a skip. “The Newfoundland Iceman” leads with a calm demeanor yet possesses an intense competitive drive.
Gushue’s achievements have brought pride to his home province of Newfoundland and Labrador, and his team’s Olympic gold provided an iconic Canadian sports moment. Beyond curling, Gushue is an entrepreneur with a passionate involvement in his community, contributing significantly through various business and charitable endeavors.
#6 Anette Norberg
- 🌍 Nationality: Swedish
- 🎂 Date of Birth: November 12, 1966
- 🥌 Position/Role: Skip
- 🏆 Career Highlights: Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist (2006, 2010), Two-time World Champion, Seven-time European Champion
Anette Norberg is revered in curling circles for her tactical acumen and her historic back-to-back Olympic gold medals. Her steely nerves in crucial match moments earned her the nickname “The Ice Queen” within the curling community.
Norberg’s resilience was on full display when she overcame cancer, returning to the sport with determination and grace. Her legacy continues to inspire curlers worldwide. Off the ice, Norberg, with a background in chemistry and business, showcases her multifaceted talents and serves as a role model for balancing professional and sporting pursuits.
#7 Randy Ferbey
- 🌍 Nationality: Canadian
- 🎂 Date of Birth: May 30, 1959
- 🥌 Position/Role: Skip (known for playing third stones)
- 🏆 Career Highlights: Four-time World Champion, Six-time Brier Champion
Randy Ferbey, known as “The Ferb,” is recognized for his unique strategy of throwing third stones while leading his team as skip. This unconventional approach resulted in a highly successful run that changed how teams consider lineup and strategy.
Ferbey’s outspoken personality and tactical ingenuity have left a lasting mark on the sport. His legacy in curling extends through his work in popularizing the game and providing commentary. Off the rink, Ferbey engages with the local community and promotes the growth of curling.
#8 Eve Muirhead
- 🌍 Nationality: British (Scottish)
- 🎂 Date of Birth: April 22, 1990
- 🥌 Position/Role: Skip
- 🏆 Career Highlights: Olympic Bronze Medalist (2014), World Champion (2013), Multi-time European Champion
As the face of British women’s curling, Eve Muirhead has distinguished herself with strategic prowess and a fierce competitive spirit. Her clutch performances in high stakes games have garnered her a reputation for resilience and determination.
Muirhead’s Olympic success at a young age set a precedent for excellence, invigorating a new generation of curlers in the UK. Outside of curling, she has pursued interests in golf and playing the bagpipes and supports initiatives promoting women in sport, emphasizing her versatility as an athlete and role model.
#9 Colleen Jones
- 🌍 Nationality: Canadian
- 🎂 Date of Birth: December 16, 1959
- 🥌 Position/Role: Skip
- 🏆 Career Highlights: 2× World Champion (2001, 2004), 6× Scotties Tournament of Hearts Champion, Canadian Sports Hall of Fame (2016)
Colleen Jones is a celebrated name in Canadian curling, often lauded for her tactical acumen and consistent delivery. Jones’ contributions to the sport span over four decades, making her one of the most enduring and successful figures in women’s curling history. Known for her skillful shot-making and strategic game planning, Colleen became synonymous with excellence on the ice.
Off the sheet, Jones has made a significant mark as a broadcaster and journalist, bringing her deep knowledge of the game to audiences across Canada. Her inspirational battle with and recovery from a serious medical condition in 2011 further highlights her resilience and dedication. Jones’ commitment to developing young talent and her support of various charities reflect her enduring influence and generosity beyond the rink.
#10 Niklas Edin
- 🌍 Nationality: Swedish
- 🎂 Date of Birth: July 6, 1985
- 🥌 Position/Role: Skip
- 🏆 Career Highlights: 5× World Champion (2013, 2015, 2018, 2019, 2021), 3× European Champion, Winter Olympic silver medalist (2018), Winter Olympic bronze medalist (2014)
Niklas Edin, a dominant force in international curling, is widely recognized for his precision shot-making and exceptional strategy on the ice. As the skip of a formidable Swedish team, Edin has consistently positioned himself and his team at the pinnacle of world curling competitions. His remarkable ability to read the ice and perform under pressure has earned him a reputation as one of the premier skips in the sport.
Beyond the rink, Edin is regarded for his sportsmanship and for helping to elevate the profile of curling in Sweden and beyond. His work with young curlers and involvement in promoting the sport demonstrate a commitment to growing curling’s popularity. Edin’s impact on the game is undeniable, as he continues to inspire the next generation of curlers with his outstanding performances and dedication.
#11 Scott Pfeifer
- 🌍 Nationality: Canadian
- 🎂 Date of Birth: June 25, 1977
- 🥌 Position/Role: Alternate
- 🏆 Career Highlights: 4× World Champion (2003, 2005, 2007, 2008), 3× Brier Champion
Scott Pfeifer made a name for himself in the curling community as a crucial member of the legendary “Ferbey Four,” which dominated the game in the early 2000s. As the alternate, Pfeifer’s role was integral in maintaining team dynamics and executing clutch shots when called upon. His strategic input and readiness to step onto the ice at critical moments were vital to the team’s success.
Away from competition, Pfeifer’s contributions to the sport include coaching and mentorship, aiding in the growth and development of upcoming curlers. There’s little fanfare about Pfeifer’s off-ice pursuits, but his commitment to his family and community is evident through his personal involvement in local initiatives and curling clubs.
#12 Al Hackner
- 🌍 Nationality: Canadian
- 🎂 Date of Birth: October 6, 1954
- 🥌 Position/Role: Skip
- 🏆 Career Highlights: 2× World Champion (1982, 1985), 2× Brier Champion, Canadian Curling Hall of Fame (1991)
Al Hackner, also known as “The Iceman,” is regarded as a curling legend, remembered for his calm demeanor under pressure and his famous “Al Hackner double” takeout shot that secured his team’s tiebreaker victory in the 1985 Brier. His strategic insights and sportsmanship during play have cemented his place in curling history.
Post-retirement, Hackner has stayed connected to the sport, offering his experience and knowledge to the next generation through coaching. Despite not seeking the limelight, Hackner’s legacy lives on through his influence on Canadian curling, with his innovative tactics adopted by many following in his footsteps.
#13 Rachel Homan
- 🌍 Nationality: Canadian
- 🎂 Date of Birth: April 5, 1989
- 🥌 Position/Role: Skip
- 🏆 Career Highlights: 3× Scotties Tournament of Hearts Champion, World Champion (2017), two-time World Junior Champion (2010, 2011)
Rachel Homan is known for her aggressive playing style and unmatched confidence on the ice, leading her team to numerous victories at a young age. Her remarkable shot-making skills, complemented by her team’s cohesion and strategic precision, have made her one of the most formidable skips in women’s curling.
Aside from her impressive on-ice achievements, Homan is also admired for her dedication to promoting the sport, particularly among young women. Her commitment to fitness and being a role model for healthy living extends beyond her curling career. Homan’s personal life, including her role as a mother, further epitomizes the balance between professional athletic pursuit and family commitments.
#14 Elisabet Gustafson
- 🌍 Nationality: Swedish
- 🎂 Date of Birth: December 25, 1964
- 🥌 Position/Role: Skip
- 🏆 Career Highlights: 4× World Champion (1992, 1995, 1998, 1999), European Champion (1998)
Elisabet Gustafson, a highlight in Swedish curling, captained her team to multiple world championships with her skillful leadership and precise shot-making abilities. As one of the most successful skips in the history of women’s curling, her strategic gameplay and competitive edge were trademark features of her storied career.
Though her on-ice achievements are well-documented, less is publicly known about her life outside of curling. Gustafson’s contribution to the sport in Sweden is immense, and while she maintains a more private personal life, her legacy within the curling community is secure, inspiring many young curlers in her home country and around the world.
#15 Kerry Burtnyk
- 🌍 Nationality: Canadian
- 🎂 Date of Birth: November 26, 1960
- 🥌 Position/Role: Skip
- 🏆 Career Highlights: World Champion (1995), 2× Brier Champion, Canadian Curling Hall of Fame (2000)
Kerry Burtnyk, a key figure in Canadian men’s curling, is best known for his strategic brilliance and shot-making precision. Burtnyk’s leadership and innovation in the game led to his nickname “the Shooter,” reflecting his ability to execute challenging shots with consistency. His influence on the game extends to his introduction of the “no lift” delivery, which many modern curlers have adopted.
Off the ice, Burtnyk embodies the curling spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship, evident in his involvement with charitable and community events. His induction into the Canadian Curling Hall of Fame speaks to his contributions to the sport, acknowledging his role in shaping its competitive narrative and fostering a spirit of excellence that continues to resonate with curlers across the nation.
Explore the most important curling tournaments where these athletes have made history.
To better understand how these legendary players excelled in their roles, check out our detailed guide on the different positions in curling.
FAQ
Who is the best Curling player of all time?
Kevin Martin is often considered the best Curling player of all time. Here’s a link to our article on why we think Kevin Martin is the best Curling player of all time. His remarkable achievements and strategic mastery have set him apart in the history of the sport.
Who are the top 10 greatest Curling players of all time?
Glenn Howard, Kevin Martin, Jennifer Jones, Russ Howard, Brad Gushue, Anette Norberg, Randy Ferbey, Eve Muirhead, Colleen Jones, and Niklas Edin are the top 10 greatest Curling players of all time. Each has made an indelible mark on the sport with their extraordinary skills and numerous titles.
Who is the most famous female Curling player?
Jennifer Jones is the most famous female Curling player. Her numerous championships, including an Olympic gold medal, have cemented her legacy as a trailblazer in women’s Curling.
