On December 22, 2023, Léo Anguenot celebrated his first-ever World Cup podium finish by securing second place at the Giant Slalom event held at Alta Badia, Italy. The 26-year-old skier from La Clusaz emerged triumphant, achieving what many would describe as the culmination of years of determination and hard work.
Anguenot, who had previously only managed to place 13th back at Aspen earlier this year, faced fierce competition from Swiss skiing powerhouse Marco Odermatt. Hollowed with his recent successes, Odermatt once again proved to be the one to beat, crossing the finish line first with Anguenot trailing 0.85 seconds behind. "It exploded, it was great," Anguenot exclaimed, referencing his disbelief when he realized he had secured his podium spot, as Steen Olsen passed behind him during the race.
After finishing ninth following the first run, Anguenot navigated the challenging conditions of the second course on deteriorated snow, showcasing remarkable agility and skill to improve significantly. "During the race, I didn't even know if it was good or not, but when I reached the bottom and saw I had over a second advantage, I understood it was a big second run," he noted. The realization of being among the top competitors was surreal for Anguenot, who called being on the podium alongside champions like Odermatt and Olsen, "crazy" and described it as "a dream come true".
Understanding the historical significance of his achievement, Anguenot aims to build on this milestone as he sets his eyes on more victories. "The next step is to go for the victory," he stated resolutely, demonstrating his ambition to climb the ranks of alpine skiing.
The ski community has followed Anguenot's career closely, particularly since he shifted his focus from water skiing—where he claimed numerous national and European titles—to alpine skiing. This transition, albeit filled with challenges, has shaped him not just as an athlete but as one with resilience. After enduring injuries, including one to his shoulder late 2020, Anguenot's patience paid off as he hone his skills on the slopes.
While Anguenot savors this moment, Marco Odermatt continues to solidify his own reign over the sport. Sunday’s performance marked the Swiss skier’s 41st career victory, consolidifying his elite status, especially with his fourth consecutive win at the Gran Risa site. The exceptional rivalry between him and Anguenot promises to keep the audience on edge, as fans eagerly anticipate their next showdown on the slopes.
Thibaut Favrot, another notable contender from France, also drew attention during the race. Having turned his position around from 27th to finish 10th overall by clocking the best time of the second run, he proved to be another rising star within Team France.
With the competitive alpine skiing season well underway, Anguenot’s swift rise marks him as one to watch. His history at Alta Badia has shown French skiers often thrive here, and he now joins their ranks. The Giant Slalom podium beckons relentless determination, proving Anguenot’s place among elite athletes is both hard-earned and well-deserved. The skiing world is excitedly poised for what lies next for this talented skier from Haute-Savoie.
Anguenot’s achievement not only heralds the promise of more substantial future results but also rekindles hope for fans of French skiing as he gracefully balances ambition and humility. This duo of tenacity and respect could bring him even closer to his ultimate goal—a coveted World Cup victory.
