Marcel Hirscher has once again demonstrated his exceptional skill by emerging victorious in the World Cup. In the event held on Sunday, Hirscher claimed the top spot in the first men’s World Cup slalom of 2019. Despite facing defeat in his previous two races, he managed to turn the tables during the final run by overtaking his Austrian teammate Marco Schwarz, who faltered at a gate and couldn’t finish first.
Reflecting on the challenging competition, Hirscher acknowledged that it was a tough match, but he ultimately clinched the title. With this triumph, he has now won 10 out of the 12 slaloms. This victory marked his 64th career win and 30th discipline achievement. Only Italy’s Alberto Tomba and Sweden’s IngemarStenmark have secured more than one slalom win in the men’s category. His last win dated back to February 2016, where he narrowly missed a victory.
Reveling in his success, Hirscher expressed satisfaction with earning 100 points from the win. The spectators in Austria were keen to witness his victory, and he delivered. France’s Alexis Pinturault trailed behind by 0.60 seconds, securing the second position, while Austria’s Manuel Feller claimed the third spot. Despite being a strong competitor, Henrik Kristoffersen finished fifth in the slalom World Cup, trailing Hirscher.
Pinturault of France made a noteworthy comeback after a five-year hiatus since his victory in Wengen, Switzerland. Recalling his training experiences from the past summer, the Frenchman revealed struggles with his equipment and skis. This victory marked his fifth win near the Croatian capital. The upcoming men’s World Cup will kick off with another slalom and GS event scheduled for the following week in Adelboden, Switzerland.
