One Victory Away From a Triple Milestone
Lara Gut-Behrami, the 33-year-old Swiss ski sensation, is on the verge of a groundbreaking achievement in Alpine skiing. On January 4, in Kranjska Gora, Slovenia, she could become the first woman to claim at least 10 victories in three World Cup disciplines. A win in the giant slalom on Saturday would place her alongside legendary male skiers Hermann Maier and Pirmin Zurbriggen, the only athletes to have reached this milestone.
The Triple-Double Feat
Gut-Behrami’s record chase highlights her versatility and dominance across multiple events. She has amassed 22 wins in Super-G, 13 in downhill, and 9 in giant slalom. If she succeeds in Kranjska Gora, she will add a 10th giant slalom victory to her illustrious résumé, cementing her status as one of the most versatile athletes in World Cup history.
“She’s an exceptional athlete,” said Marc Girardelli, the Luxembourg ski legend and five-time overall World Cup champion. “Lara’s recent performances, like her strong showing in Semmering, prove she’s ready for this moment. Even with minor setbacks, her skill and determination shine through.”
A Rare Club of Legends
Gut-Behrami’s achievement would elevate her to a rarefied status in Alpine skiing. While icons like Lindsey Vonn, Mikaela Shiffrin, and Annemarie Moser-Pröll have left their marks on the sport, none have reached double-digit wins in three disciplines. The exclusive club currently includes only Maier and Zurbriggen, both revered for their all-around prowess.
Girardelli reflected on his own near-miss with the milestone. “I came close with nine Super-G wins, but my focus was on overall titles. Lara’s pursuit of this record shows her extraordinary range and consistency.”
A Double Celebration?
Gut-Behrami’s weekend could bring more than just a place in the history books. On Sunday, she is the favorite to be named Switzerland’s Sportswoman of the Year, a title she has already won twice (2016, 2023). A victory in Kranjska Gora would undoubtedly bolster her chances for this prestigious honor.
Focus on the Big Picture
Despite the allure of records and accolades, Gut-Behrami’s sights remain set on broader goals. Her ultimate ambitions include another overall World Cup title and success at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo. “Winning the big crystal globe again would mean more to her than even this historic achievement,” Girardelli noted.
What’s Next?
Many eyes will be on Gut-Behrami as she takes to the Gran Podkoren slope in Kranjska Gora. A victory on Saturday would not only make history but also underscore her place among the all-time greats of Alpine skiing. For now, the Swiss star is focused on the task at hand, ready to add another chapter to her remarkable career.
This article uses information sourced from Blick.ch.
About the Author: SR Staff Report
