Breezy Johnson Claims Olympic Downhill Gold, Joins Lindsey Vonn as U.S. Champion
In a remarkable achievement at the Milan Cortina Olympics, Breezy Johnson has claimed the gold medal in downhill skiing. This victory makes her the second American woman to secure this prestigious title, joining the legendary Lindsey Vonn.
Breezy Johnson’s Historic Win
On Sunday, Johnson finished with a time of 1:36.1, marking the first Olympic medal of her career. The native of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, skied in her second Olympic Games. Entering the competition as the reigning world champion, her win did not come as a surprise. This moment also represents the United States’ first medal of these Olympics.
With arms raised in triumph, Johnson accepted her gold medal atop the podium, visibly emotional as she sang along with the U.S. national anthem. “I had a good feeling about today,” she commented. “I don’t know when it will sink in yet.” Her determination was evident as she acknowledged the need to perform better than in training.
Race Details
- Silver Medal: Emma Aicher from Germany, just 0.04 seconds behind Johnson.
- Bronze Medal: Sofia Goggia of Italy, securing her country’s fourth medal.
- Course Description: The challenging 1.6-mile Tofane course features an elevation drop of over 2,000 feet.
Johnson’s journey to gold was not straightforward. In 2022, she suffered a significant injury on the same course, tearing cartilage in her right knee and missing the Beijing Olympics. Reflecting on her past, she expressed her resolve to overcome her previous challenges in Cortina.
The Impact of Lindsey Vonn’s Crash
The event was marred by a brutal crash that befell Lindsey Vonn, who had been aiming to break records as the oldest Alpine skier to medal. After just 13 seconds of racing, she fell and had to be airlifted off the mountain, reopening the course after a 30-minute delay.
“My heart goes out to her,” Johnson stated after the accident, highlighting the emotional ties skiers have to the Tofane course. “It hurts so much more when you love the course and it hurts you.”
Johnson’s Challenges and Achievements
Beyond the recent victory, Johnson faced personal and professional obstacles, including a suspension from the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency. Issues with the agency’s app led to missed tests, but she has remained focused on her goals.
Additionally, Johnson dealt with a back injury incurred while lifting weights, which she described as “the worst pain of my life.” Despite these struggles, her victory in Cortina represents resilience and determination, reinforcing her status as a champion in downhill skiing.
