LIVIGNO, Italy — Alex Ferreira from the United States clinched gold in the men’s freestyle skiing halfpipe final at the Milan Cortina Winter Games. This victory marks his third Olympic medal, completing a full set with bronze in 2022 and silver in 2018.
The 31-year-old delivered an impressive final run, scoring 93.75 out of 100. This performance not only secured him the top spot on the podium but also helped the U.S. team hold second place in the overall medal standings, trailing only Norway.
The competition was tight. Estonian newcomer Henry Sildaru surprised everyone by taking silver with a score of 93 points on his third attempt. Canada’s Brendan Mackay, the reigning world champion, won bronze with a last-minute run that earned him 91 points. His performance bumped American Nick Goepper down to fourth, just minutes after Goepper faced a significant crash, which he survived without injury.
Unfortunately, not all news was positive. New Zealand’s Fin Melville Ives suffered a serious accident during the morning qualifiers and was taken to the hospital.
Competitors in the halfpipe navigate a U-shaped ramp, showcasing flips and spins. They earn points based on height, the complexity of their tricks, and their overall performance.
Freestyle skiing has become increasingly popular in recent years. A recent survey by the International Ski Federation reported a significant rise in participants, especially among younger athletes. This trend reflects a broader shift in winter sports, attracting more fans and new talent.
Social media reactions to Ferreira’s victory show immense support, with fans celebrating his dedication and skills. Many are eager to see how he’ll continue to evolve in the sport. As Ferreira himself has mentioned, “Every competition is a chance to learn and grow.”
For more insights on the evolution of freestyle skiing, check out the International Ski Federation.
