Norwegian skier Atle Lie McGrath secured victory at the Wengen World Cup slalom on Sunday for the second consecutive year, solidifying his position as a top contender for the upcoming Olympics. McGrath, a U.S.-born athlete, extended his lead from the first run to finish 0.47 seconds ahead of his close friend Lucas Pinheiro Braathen, a Norwegian now representing Brazil, and 0.81 seconds ahead of his teammate Henrik Kristoffersen.
This triumph marked McGrath’s fifth career win and 19th podium finish on the World Cup circuit. Following a silver medal in the previous season’s slalom world championships, McGrath claimed his second win of the season after a successful performance in Alta Badia, Italy, last month.
Expressing his elation, McGrath described the race as legendary and emphasized the thrill of competing alongside Braathen and Kristoffersen. With two more slalom events remaining before the commencement of the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics on February 6, the men’s competition will continue in Bormio.
McGrath, whose father Felix participated in the 1988 Calgary Olympics for the U.S. in slalom and giant slalom, showcased a strategic approach during the race, carefully navigating the opening gates before accelerating on the steepest section of the course to secure his lead. Reflecting on his performance, McGrath credited his willingness to take calculated risks, highlighting the second run as one of the best in his career.
Following the conclusion of the race, McGrath and Braathen, both 25 years old and born just two days apart, shared a heartfelt embrace, reminiscing about their shared journey in skiing and the perseverance required to reach this level of competition. Additionally, Kristoffersen celebrated a milestone achievement with his 100th podium finish in his career.