Simon Ammann working towards '14 Games, halts retirement rumors

BERN, Switzerland (AP) -- Four-time Olympic ski jumping champion Simon Ammann is targeting the 2014 Sochi Games, ending speculation he would retire this year.

The 30-year-old Swiss was thought to be ready to end his career after struggling with new regulations and pulling out of the Four Hills tournament because of illness. His best finish is eighth in World Cup events this season.

Ammann says in a statement he's excited about competing at his fifth Olympics in Russia, where he has "a special emotional connection." He married his Russian wife, Yana, four months after winning the normal and large hill competitions at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics.

Ammann also doubled up at the 2002 Salt Lake City Games, where he gained attention for his Harry Potter-like appearance.