Norwegian Skier Defies Physics to Win Olympic Gold

A 23-year-old Norwegian skier just changed the future of freeskiing by doing something that shouldn't be possible.

Tormod Frostad won Olympic gold in men's big air on Tuesday night in Livigno, Italy, by spinning forward off a ramp designed to launch skiers backward. His "nose butter" trick with a physics-defying twist earned him scores approaching perfect, including a clutch 98.50 on his final jump to secure victory.

The competition turned into an instant classic that had athletes calling it one for the history books. American Mac Forehand pushed Frostad to the limit, coming within 2.25 points of gold with his own incredible performance that included landing a trick he'd only recently joked about trying.

Forehand actually took the lead on the second-to-last jump of the night, turning what looked like a victory lap for Frostad into the most pressure-filled moment of his career. But Frostad delivered when it mattered most, staying calm by simply enjoying the moment.

"I didn't really care because I was already super happy and I could ski the last run with joy in my body," Frostad said after his victory. That joy translated into flawless execution under Olympic pressure.

The night wasn't just about Frostad's revolutionary approach. American Konnor Ralph attempted a triple-cork 2160 (six full spins) for the first time ever and landed it, finishing fifth in what became the U.S. team's best performance in snowpark events at these Olympics.

Why This Inspires

What made this competition special wasn't just the athletic achievement. Forehand graciously celebrated Frostad's creativity, emphasizing that progression in their sport isn't just about spinning more but about style and doing the unexpected.

Even 2022 gold medalist Birk Ruud acknowledged that Frostad's innovation changed the game. "The progression is not just in the spinning," he said, recognizing that creativity matters as much as difficulty.

Despite the razor-thin margin of defeat, Forehand walked away smiling. "I'm happy to walk away alive from that event," he said, acknowledging both the danger and the honor of competing in such an extraordinary final.

The 12 finalists pushed through challenging snowy conditions to deliver what both medalists agreed was potentially the greatest big air event in history. Athletes supporting each other while pushing boundaries reminds us that competition at its best brings out not just excellence, but humanity.

Frostad and Forehand showed the world that you can chase gold with everything you have and still celebrate the journey together.