Gremaud Edges Gu for Gold in Slopestyle Thriller
In a nail-biting finale at the Winter Olympics 2026 in Milan-Cortina, Swiss freestyle skier Mathilde Gremaud has claimed back-to-back gold in the women's freeski slopestyle event, denying American star Eileen Gu her elusive Olympic title. The 25-year-old Gremaud delivered a flawless third run to score 94.50 points, holding off a valiant effort from Gu, who settled for silver with 93.50. This dramatic showdown highlights the growing intensity and skill in women's skiing, as Australia eyes its own medals with snowboarders Tess Coady and Meila Stalker advancing to the big air final.
The Slopestyle Showdown: Gremaud's Precision Triumphs
The women's freeski slopestyle competition unfolded under crisp Italian skies at the Milano Cortina venue, drawing global attention to the blend of technical rails and massive jumps that define the discipline. Gremaud, the defending champion from Beijing 2022, entered the event with quiet confidence, knowing the pressure was on to repeat her historic feat. Her strategy paid off as she methodically built her score across three runs, peaking with a near-perfect final descent that included a switch 1260 off the canon and a clean double cork 1260 on the kicker.
Eileen Gu, the 23-year-old phenom who has dominated X Games and World Cup circuits, chased gold aggressively. Representing the United States in these Games after competing for China in 2022, Gu pushed boundaries with her innovative tricks, including a risky double grab on her last run. Despite the silver, Gu reflected post-event on the sport's evolution: "It's a testament to the growth of women's skiing," she said, acknowledging the field's rising standards. Her score was just a point shy, underscoring the razor-thin margins in elite freestyle.
Bronze went to France's Tess Ledeux, but all eyes were on the Gu-Gremaud rivalry. Gremaud's victory marks her as a two-time Olympic champion, cementing her legacy in a sport where innovation meets danger. Analysts note that slopestyle's evolution—from basic jibs to aerial acrobatics—demands not just athleticism but creativity under pressure.
Australian Hopes in Snowboarding Big Air
As the slopestyle dust settled, attention shifted to Australia's contingent in the women's snowboard big air final, scheduled for 5:30am AEDT. Tess Coady, the Tokyo 2020 park and pipe silver medallist, and 17-year-old sensation Meila Stalker are poised to make history. Coady, known for her bold style, qualified with a strong 85.75 in prelims, while Stalker's youthful flair earned her a spot with an 82.00.
For Aussies, this event represents a golden opportunity amid a Winter Games program light on traditional alpine events. Snowboarding has been Australia's strongest suit, with past medals from Torah Bright and Scout Bassett. Coady, hailing from New South Wales, spoke of the mental prep: "It's all about visualizing that perfect run." Stalker, a rising star from Victoria, adds fresh energy, having impressed in qualifiers with a cab double underflip.
The big air format—three runs judged on amplitude, style, and landing—favors risk-takers. With competitors from Canada and Japan in the mix, Coady and Stalker face stiff competition, but their qualification positions them well for a podium push.
Beyond the Medals: Olympic Day Three Highlights
Day three of the Milan-Cortina Games buzzed with diverse action. In ice hockey, Italy edged Japan 3-2 in a match marred by a VAR-like review that delayed play for minutes. The puck's chaotic path over goaltender Gabriella Durante's helmet sparked debate, mirroring football's video tech controversies. Japan's Akane Shiga's goal stood, but Italy held on for the win, delighting the home crowd.
Australia's ice dancing duo, Holly Harris and Jason Chan, marked a milestone as the first representatives in 12 years. Their routine, set to air at 5:20am AEDT, blends artistry and athleticism, aiming to showcase Australia's freestyle prowess on ice.
Freestyle skiing continued with more events from 10:30pm AEDT, including men's slopestyle. The Games' opening weekend saw logistical hiccups, with 'sabotage' claims over delayed trains, but the athletic spectacle remained uninterrupted.
The Bigger Picture: Women's Sport Surge
Gu's comments post-silver resonate amid the Olympics' push for gender parity. Women's events like slopestyle and big air have exploded in popularity, with fields deeper and tricks more daring than ever. Gremaud's win, paired with Gu's consistency, signals a new era where multiple nations vie for supremacy, moving beyond U.S. or European dominance.
For Australia, the focus is on maximizing limited opportunities. With no alpine skiing medals expected, freestyle and snowboarding carry the flag. Coady and Stalker's final could yield Australia's first 2026 medal, building on Beijing's hauls.
As the Games progress, expect more twists. The silence around past crashes, like Lindsey Vonn's, contrasts with today's cheers and jeers, including opening ceremony pleas for peace amid global tensions.
What's Next for Olympics Fans?
Stay tuned for live updates on Everythiiing.com as day three wraps. Key watches include the big air final and ice dancing debut. With 98 events across 15 disciplines, Milan-Cortina promises non-stop drama. Whether you're tracking Gu's redemption arc or cheering Aussie underdogs, the 2026 Winter Olympics are redefining winter sports.
This coverage draws from official Olympic feeds and on-site reports, ensuring accurate, timely insights for fans Down Under.
