Norwegian Skier Wins 5th Title at Home Hill Before Olympics

Henrik Kristoffersen stood under the floodlights in Schladming, Austria, tears streaming down his face after ending nearly a year without a World Cup victory. The Norwegian skiing star had just won the traditional night slalom race for a record fifth time, beating his teammate Atle Lie McGrath by just over a third of a second with a daring final run.

"I don't cry a lot, and I never cry for pain or sadness, but today I cry for joy," Kristoffersen said in his course-side interview. The victory came at the perfect moment and perfect place, just days before the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics begin.

The 34th win of his career happened on a hill that feels like home. Kristoffersen lives in Salzburg, just an hour's drive from Schladming, where he also scored his first ever World Cup win back in January 2014.

His record-breaking fifth victory at the venue moved him past Austrian legend Benjamin Raich, who won the event four times. "Fifth time Schladming, I guess this is my house," Kristoffersen joked after his emotional win.

The victory also puts him within striking distance of Norwegian skiing history. He now sits just two wins behind retired skier Aksel Lund Svindal's Norwegian record of 36 career World Cup victories.

Kristoffersen hadn't won since early March, when he claimed back-to-back races in Slovenia. The drought weighed on him, making Wednesday's breakthrough all the sweeter as he prepares to compete for Olympic gold.

Why This Inspires

Sometimes the best victories come when we need them most. Kristoffersen's emotional response shows that even world-class athletes feel doubt and pressure, and that perseverance through difficult stretches makes success even more meaningful.

His win demonstrates that home advantage isn't just about location. It's about feeling supported, comfortable, and connected to a place that has shaped your journey from first victory to record-breaking achievement.

With the Olympics approaching, Kristoffersen heads to Milan Cortina riding a wave of confidence and emotion that money can't buy.