U.S. Skiers Take Double Podium in Czech Giant Slalom

Two American skiers stood shoulder-to-shoulder on a World Cup podium Saturday, proving that U.S. skiing is hitting its stride at exactly the right moment before the 2026 Olympics.

Paula Moltzan finished second and Mikaela Shiffrin took third in a giant slalom race at Spindlerův Mlýn, Czech Republic, giving Team USA its first double podium in the discipline this season. Sweden's Sara Hector claimed victory by just 0.18 seconds over Moltzan, capping one of the tightest finishes of the winter.

The demanding course in the Czech mountains tested the world's best skiers with tight, rhythm-breaking turns that demanded precision over pure speed. More than a dozen racers failed to finish both runs, including New Zealand's Alice Robinson, who was visibly emotional after struggling on the opening run.

Moltzan delivered her career-best World Cup result in giant slalom, attacking the course with confidence from start to finish. Starting fifth in the first run, she held her position through a chaotic second run that saw several favorites fall out of contention.

For Shiffrin, the podium finish carried extra weight after nearly two years away from the giant slalom top three. Starting from the 14th position, she threaded clean turns through both runs to claim her spot alongside her teammate, showing the form that made her a household name.

The American duo wasn't alone in making noise. Nina O'Brien finished seventh, giving the U.S. three skiers in the top ten and sending a clear message to competitors ahead of next year's Winter Olympics in Italy.

Why This Inspires

This double podium represents more than just good skiing. It shows the depth of talent on Team USA, with multiple athletes peaking together rather than relying on a single star.

The timing couldn't be better, with the Milano Cortina Olympics just over a year away. American skiers are finding their rhythm on challenging European courses, building confidence and momentum when it matters most.

Moltzan's breakthrough performance proves that persistence pays off. She's been knocking on the door of elite results for years, and her composure under pressure in the Czech Republic showed she belongs among the world's best.

For Shiffrin, returning to the giant slalom podium after such a long absence demonstrates the resilience that defines champions. Her willingness to keep pushing in a discipline where she's faced setbacks shows the mindset that will serve Team USA well in the seasons ahead.

Team USA is skiing into the Olympic season with wind at their backs and proof that American athletes can compete with anyone in the world.