Ester Ledecka has once again claimed her place at the top of the snowboard world, winning her first snowboard world title in eight years at the 2025 Freeski and Snowboard World Championships in Engadin, Switzerland, on March 20, 2025. The Czech athlete dethroned the defending champion, Miki Tsubaki of Japan, in a fiercely competitive women's parallel giant slalom event.
Ledecka, a three-time Olympic champion, expressed her delight after the race, saying, "It’s awesome. I haven’t competed in a World Championships since [2017] because it was difficult with timing because of skiing events." In that time, she focused significantly on her skiing career, making her return to the world stage all the more poignant.
The silver medal was awarded to Tsubaki who, in a thrilling semi-final, edged out Poland’s Aleksandra Krol-Walas by just 0.01 seconds. Krol-Walas, who claimed the bronze, was no stranger to the podium, having won the same medal in 2023.
Meanwhile, the men’s parallel giant slalom event saw a remarkable victory from 44-year-old Roland Fischnaller of Italy, who claimed gold to end an 11-year wait for his second world title. Fischnaller triumphed in a dramatic photo finish, defeating Germany’s Stefan Baumeister by just 0.09 seconds. Baumeister, whose performance was nothing short of sensational, celebrated his first career world championship medal, taking silver in a race that saw him knock out several seasoned competitors, including South Korea’s Lee Sangho, who took home the bronze.
"I was in really good shape the past few days," Fischnaller said emotionally after his win. "This medal is dedicated to my family and especially my wife…I’m super happy today, it’s sunshine!" His achievement resonates deeply within the sport, illustrating that age is no barrier to success.
As the competitions unfolded throughout the day, it was clear that the atmosphere was electric, with spectators and athletes alike enjoying the thrill of the races. The championships, which kicked off with what many deemed a spectacular start on the slalom slopes, provided a perfect showcase for both seasoned veterans and emerging talents.
Though the day’s events had their share of astonishment, such as Lee’s surprising bronze win—following a disqualification of Dario Caviezel, the local favorite—the focus remained solidly on Ledecka and Fischnaller, both of whom delivered extraordinary performances to make history in their respective events.
Baumeister, reflecting on his unexpected podium finish, shared his delight, stating, "That’s insane. I had absolutely no expectations which makes it even happier." His path to the final involved victories over notable challengers, including Tim Mastnak from Slovenia and Cody Winters from the USA.
Looking ahead, the excitement continues in Engadin as athletes prepare for the upcoming races, including the qualifications for the parallel slalom individual event on March 22. With both Ledecka and Fischnaller's impressive performances, spectators can expect thrilling face-offs between these remarkable athletes.
The day was a testament not only to individual prowess but also to the spirit of competition that brings together athletes from around the globe. As snowboarders and fans gather to celebrate the skill and determination shown at the Freeski and Snowboard World Championships, the enthusiasm surrounding the remaining events promises an exhilarating continuation of this riveting sports spectacle.
