Mathilde Gremaud - Olympic Slopestyle Gold Medalist Summary: Dynamic and accomplished freestyle skier with a proven track record of success in international competitions, including a remarkable gold medal performance in slopestyle at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. Demonstrated ability to excel under pressure and deliver outstanding results in high-stakes environments. Achievements: Gold Medalist, Slopestyle - Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics Silver Medalist, Slopestyle - Eileen...
Topics covered
The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics has already delivered thrilling moments, particularly in the women’s slopestyle freestyle skiing event. Swiss athlete Mathilde Gremaud successfully defended her title in a stunning display of skill. Competing in the scenic Alpine town of Livigno, Gremaud surpassed her main rival, Eileen Gu from China, who aimed to upgrade her silver medal from the previous Olympics.
This event was not merely a competition; it highlighted the athletes’ exceptional talent and commitment. Gu, who sought to turn her earlier success into a gold medal, encountered an unforeseen challenge during her final run. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as competitors readied themselves to execute their most impressive tricks.
Gremaud’s commanding performance
The atmosphere was charged with excitement as competitors readied themselves to execute their most impressive tricks. Gremaud’s commanding performance set the bar extraordinarily high. She opened the finals with a stunning display, executing an elite-level maneuver known as the nose butter double cork 1260.
This complex trick, which combines intricate movements and rotations, captivated both judges and the audience alike. It marked a significant milestone as the first time a female competitor performed this trick, involving pressing the tips of her skis on takeoff, followed by two off-axis flips and a full rotation.
Her confidence was palpable as she glided down the slope, proudly adorned with the Swiss flag. Gremaud’s first run earned her a remarkable score of 86.96, briefly overshadowing Gu’s initial score of 86.58. Despite encountering challenges in her subsequent runs, Gremaud maintained her focus and composure, ultimately securing her place atop the podium.
Gu’s fierce competition
Eileen Gu, a double Olympic champion, set a high standard for herself in earlier runs. Her first attempt showcased her signature style, combining impressive tricks and jumps that temporarily placed her in first position. However, in her second run, Gu stumbled on the rails, which complicated her efforts to reclaim the lead.
Determined to overcome adversity, she aimed for a standout final run to seize the gold from her competitor. Unfortunately, her ambitions were cut short when she fell early in her last attempt. With a score of 75.30, Gu secured the silver medal, marking her second consecutive Olympic silver in this event.
Canada’s Megan Oldham and unexpected challenges
On the third step of the podium stood Canada’s Megan Oldham. Despite a significant crash on her second run, she managed to recover and impress the judges in her final performance. Oldham’s determination was evident as she executed a series of acrobatic jumps and clean rail runs, ultimately scoring 76.46 to secure the bronze medal. Her journey in the competition exemplified the unpredictable nature of sport.
The event highlighted not only the thrill of victory but also the challenges athletes face. The atmosphere in Livigno was electric, with the audience cheering enthusiastically as the competitors showcased their skills. The medal ceremony became a display of national pride, with flags waving and winners celebrating their achievements, underscoring the spirit of the Olympics.
A moment of celebration
Celebration at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games
As medals were awarded by Britain’s Princess Anne, the crowd erupted in cheers, creating a vibrant scene filled with flags from Switzerland, China, and Canada. This moment served as a reminder of the dedication and hard work that led these athletes to this prestigious event. Gu, reflecting on her performance, expressed that she felt no need to prove anything further after her previous Olympic success, while eagerly anticipating future competitions in events such as big air and halfpipe.
The thrilling rematch between Gremaud and Gu will be remembered as a highlight of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games, emphasizing the high stakes and fierce competition in the world of freestyle skiing.
