Park Record: Macuga Takes 5th and Vonn Finishes 15th in Thrilling World Championships Downhill Race

In the downhill race at the World Championships in Saalbach, Austria, U.S. skier Breezy Johnson took gold, making her the 2025 downhill world champion. Her teammates, Lauren Macuga and Lindsey Vonn, finished in 5th and 15th places, respectively.

“It has not sunk in yet,” Johnson shared. “I’ve just been trying to ski my best all weekend.”

The weather was sunny, and the track held up well after three training runs. Johnson had already shown good speed during practice. When it came time to race, she pushed herself hard right from the start, finishing a full second faster than her previous best.

“I came to Cortina for my second World Championships and didn’t walk away with a medal. I fell in Meribel, but I kept trying,” Johnson recalled. “If you keep at it, maybe one day it pays off.”

As competitors took their turns, Johnson’s time stood strong until Lauren Macuga raced down with impressive speed, thrilling the audience. Macuga finished 5th, feeling proud of her performance.

“I put forward my best skiing, and I couldn’t be more excited,” Macuga said. “It’s amazing to see our team thriving.”

Lindsey Vonn, after a recent fall, managed to finish in 15th place. She focused on staying calm during her run, which she saw as good practice for next year’s Olympics.

“I’m so happy for Breezy and Lauren. Our team is really strong, and the upcoming season looks exciting,” Vonn commented.

Jackie Wiles also competed but did not finish her race. Fortunately, she avoided any injuries.

Overcome with emotion, Johnson celebrated her win with tears of joy. She called her parents, sharing the moment with them. This victory marks a milestone for Johnson, who is a two-time Olympian with seven World Cup podium finishes but had never reached the top of the podium until now.

The U.S. women’s speed team has been doing incredibly well at the Championships, with Macuga winning a bronze in the super-G and Johnson taking gold. More events are coming up soon, including the combined event for women.

The men will compete in downhill skiing on Super Bowl Sunday.

RESULTS
Women’s downhill results

HOW TO WATCH
Saturday, Feb. 8
3:00 p.m. ET – Women’s World Championships downhill, Saalbach, AUT – NBC Tape Delay

Sunday, Feb. 9
5:30 a.m. ET – Men’s World Championships downhill, Saalbach, AUT – skiandsnowboard.live