Alexis Pinturault Withdraws from Beaver Creek Downhill in Comeback from Injury
The French skiing star, recovering from a severe knee injury, opts to skip the downhill race as he cautiously returns to competition.
- Alexis Pinturault, a three-time Olympic medalist and 2021 World Cup champion, is returning to competition after rupturing the ACL in his left knee during a crash in January 2024.
- The 33-year-old skier decided not to participate in Friday's downhill race at Beaver Creek, citing a desire to compete when he feels more prepared for the discipline.
- Pinturault expressed apprehension about his return, noting the challenges of high-speed training and the difficulty of the Beaver Creek course for a comeback.
- He finished 44th and 56th in training sessions earlier this week, reflecting his gradual adjustment to racing conditions after nearly a year away.
- While uncertain about Saturday's super-G, Pinturault is confirmed to compete in Sunday's giant slalom, a discipline where he has historically excelled.