Jung's early exposure to equestrian activities led him to join RSG Altheim in Germany. Under the guidance of national coach Peter Thomsen, Jung honed his skills and developed into a formidable competitor in the equestrian world.

Achievements and Injuries

Jung's career is marked by numerous accolades. He won gold in the individual event at the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Lexington, USA. He also claimed gold in individual eventing at both the 2012 London Olympics and the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics. This achievement made him the third eventing rider to win consecutive individual gold medals at the Olympics.

Despite his successes, Jung faced several injuries. In October 2018, he broke his arm after a fall in Angers, France. In 2015, he chipped a bone from his tibia but still won gold at the European Championships in Blair Castle, Scotland. He also broke his collarbone in 2014 at an event in Donaueschingen, Germany.

Awards and Honours

Jung's contributions to equestrian sports have been recognised with several awards. In 2016, he was named Reitmaster by the German Equestrian Federation. He was inducted into the Eventing Riders Association's Hall of Fame in 2013 and became an honorary citizen of Horb am Neckar the same year.

He received the Silbernen Lorbeerblatt for his achievements at the 2012 London Olympics and won the International Equestrian Federation's Reem Acra Best Athlete award in 2012. His accomplishments in dressage and jumping earned him the Goldene Reitabzeichen in 2003.

Personal Life and Philosophy

Jung is married to Faye Fullgraebe, an animal physiotherapist at their family’s equestrian centre. They have a son named Lio, born in 2021. Jung's sporting philosophy revolves around his love for riding and training young horses rather than just winning competitions.

Other Sports and Milestones

Besides eventing, Jung has competed in equestrian jumping and dressage at an elite level. In May 2016, he became the first German rider to win the Badminton Horse Trials in England. This victory secured him the Rolex Grand Slam after triumphs at Burghley and Kentucky events.

Horse Retirement

In November 2018, Jung retired his horse La Biosthetique Sam at their family’s equestrian centre. The pair had won gold together at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics as well as at the 2010 World Equestrian Games. La Biosthetique Sam continues to be ridden regularly and remains fit.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Jung plans to continue competing while also focusing on training young horses. His dedication to equestrian sports remains unwavering as he balances his roles as an athlete, coach, and horse trainer.