Megan Oldham Claims Gold in Freeski Big Air; Eileen Gu Takes Silver

In an exhilarating final at the Milan Cortina Games on February 12, 2024, Canada’s Megan Oldham secured the gold medal in freeski big air, while defending Olympic champion Eileen Gu of the United States claimed silver. Oldham topped the competition with a combined score of 180.75 points from her two best jumps, narrowly edging out Gu, who finished with 179 points.

Italy’s Flora Tabanelli rounded out the podium with a bronze medal, marking a remarkable comeback just four months after suffering a torn ACL. This victory represents Oldham’s second medal at the Winter Games, following her bronze in slopestyle the previous week.

The Path to Victory

Oldham’s performance was impressive right from the start. She established her lead with her first two jumps, which secured her the top position. Although she experienced a fall during her final jump, it proved inconsequential as she celebrated her victory. The 24-year-old athlete embraced Gu before they stepped onto the podium, highlighting the camaraderie despite the competitive atmosphere.

Gu, who was born in the United States but competes for her mother’s native China, has become a dominant figure in freestyle skiing. At just 18 years old during the 2022 Olympics, she made history by becoming the first freestyle skier to win three medals in a single Games: gold in big air and halfpipe and silver in slopestyle. Her achievements now total five Olympic medals across two appearances. Following her silver in slopestyle last week, Gu has the opportunity to add a sixth medal when she defends her halfpipe gold on Saturday.

Challenges and Delays

The final was not without its challenges. Originally featuring twelve competitors, the field was reduced to ten after Mathilde Gremaud and Anouk Andraska, both from Switzerland, suffered injuries in practice. Gremaud, who successfully defended her slopestyle gold last week, was taken off the course on a stretcher after injuring her hip. Andraska sustained a wrist injury, adding to the tension of the event.

In big air, athletes are allowed three jumps, with their scores based on the difficulty and execution of their landings. The final was delayed by over an hour due to a snowstorm, yet this did not dampen the spirits of the competitors or the audience. Oldham and Gu’s performances showcased the skill and determination that define elite athletes at the Olympics.

As the Winter Games continue, the spotlight remains on these outstanding athletes, whose journeys resonate beyond the medal counts. With Oldham’s gold and Gu’s silver, both competitors have added to the rich tapestry of Olympic history, inspiring the next generation of freestyle skiers.