Alexis Pinturault Skips Wengen World Cup Stage to Focus on Recovery and Future Races
French alpine skiing star Alexis Pinturault has decided to skip the upcoming Alpine Ski World Cup stage in Wengen, Switzerland, scheduled for January 17 and 18. This decision comes one year after the most serious injury of his career occurred on the same slopes.
In January 2023, Pinturault suffered a devastating crash during the super-G race in Wengen, rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee when landing a jump. The injury sidelined him for months, and despite his return to competition in the fall, the 2021 overall World Cup champion admits he still needs more time to regain full confidence.
“The rest of the program will be training to prepare Kitzbühel for super-G,” Pinturault explained on January 12, following his 12th-place finish in the giant slalom at Adelboden, Switzerland. He also mentioned his focus on “the giant of Schladming” on January 28.
While his 12th-place finish in Adelboden was his best result in the discipline this season, pinturault acknowledged that he is still working to rebuild his form. “I still need a little more kilometers, a little more confidence,” he said, emphasizing the challenges of returning to peak performance after such a notable injury.
The decision to skip Wengen is strategic. Pinturault has not trained in super-G since December 7, when he finished 10th in Beaver Creek, USA. He also missed the super-G in Bormio at the end of December due to illness. “And so, I will not go to Wengen in super-G,” he stated, leaving his return to downhill racing uncertain.
Key Points: Alexis Pinturault’s Recovery and Future Plans
Table of Contents
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Injury | Ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in left knee during Wengen super-G (2023) |
| Current Status | skipping Wengen 2024 to focus on training and recovery |
| Upcoming Races | Kitzbühel super-G (January 24) and schladming giant slalom (January 28) |
| Recent Performance | 12th in Adelboden giant slalom, best result this season |
| Training Gaps | Zero super-G training days as December 7 |
Pinturault’s journey back to the top has been marked by resilience. The Courchevel skier, who once dominated the slopes with his versatility, is now prioritizing his health and long-term career. his decision to skip Wengen reflects a cautious approach, ensuring he is fully prepared for the challenges ahead.
As fans eagerly await his return to form, Pinturault’s story serves as a reminder of the physical and mental toll elite athletes endure. his determination to overcome adversity continues to inspire, and his upcoming races in Kitzbühel and schladming will be critical milestones in his comeback journey.
For more updates on Alexis Pinturault’s progress and the latest in alpine skiing, stay tuned to our coverage.
Alexis Pinturault’s Comeback Journey: Skipping Wengen to Focus on Recovery and Future Races
French alpine skiing star Alexis Pinturault has made the strategic decision to skip the upcoming Alpine Ski World Cup stage in Wengen, Switzerland, as he continues his recovery from a devastating injury sustained on the same slopes a year ago.In an exclusive interview with world-today-news.com, Senior Editor Sarah Thompson sits down with Dr. Laurent Dubois, a renowned sports medicine specialist and alpine skiing analyst, to discuss Pinturault’s recovery, his current form, and his plans for the future.
Understanding Pinturault’s Injury and Recovery Process
Sarah Thompson: Dr. Dubois, can you give us some insight into the severity of Alexis Pinturault’s injury and what his recovery process has been like?
Dr. Laurent Dubois: Absolutely, Sarah. Pinturault suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee during a super-G race in Wengen last January. This is one of the most serious injuries a skier can face, as it not only requires extensive physical rehabilitation but also a significant mental adjustment. The ACL is crucial for stability and power in skiing, so rebuilding strength and confidence takes time. Pinturault has been methodical in his approach, focusing on gradual progress rather then rushing back to competition.
The Decision to Skip Wengen
Sarah thompson: Pinturault has decided to skip the Wengen stage this year. What does this decision tell us about his current state and priorities?
Dr.Laurent Dubois: Skipping Wengen is a smart and cautious move. It shows that Pinturault is prioritizing his long-term career over short-term gains. Wengen is a technically demanding course, and given that he hasn’t trained in super-G since early December, it makes sense to avoid unnecessary risks. This decision reflects his maturity as an athlete and his commitment to returning to peak performance when he’s truly ready.
Current Form and Recent Performances
Sarah Thompson: Pinturault recently finished 12th in the giant slalom at Adelboden, his best result this season. How would you assess his current form?
Dr. Laurent Dubois: His 12th-place finish in Adelboden is a positive sign, but it also highlights that he’s still in the rebuilding phase.Pinturault himself has acknowledged that he needs more kilometers on the slopes and more confidence in his abilities. It’s crucial to remember that recovering from an ACL injury isn’t just about physical healing—it’s also about regaining the mental edge that allows athletes to push their limits. I think we’ll see gradual improvements as he continues to train and compete.
Looking Ahead: kitzbühel and Schladming
Sarah Thompson: Pinturault has mentioned focusing on the super-G in Kitzbühel and the giant slalom in Schladming. What can we expect from him in these upcoming races?
Dr. Laurent Dubois: Kitzbühel and Schladming will be critical milestones in his comeback journey. Kitzbühel’s super-G is one of the most challenging races on the circuit, and it will test his confidence and technical skills. Schladming, on the other hand, is a night race with a unique atmosphere, and it’s a venue where Pinturault has historically performed well. These races will give us a clearer picture of where he stands in his recovery and whether he’s ready to compete at the highest level again.
The Mental and Physical Challenges of a Comeback
Sarah Thompson: What are some of the biggest challenges Pinturault faces as he works to return to his pre-injury form?
Dr. Laurent Dubois: The mental aspect is often the most challenging. After a serious injury, athletes can struggle with fear of reinjury or hesitation in high-pressure situations. Physically, regaining the explosive power and precision required for alpine skiing takes time. Pinturault has shown remarkable resilience, but it’s a process that requires patience and support from his team. I believe his cautious approach will pay off in the long run.
What’s Next for Pinturault?
Sarah Thompson: what advice would you give to fans and followers of Pinturault as they watch his comeback journey unfold?
Dr. Laurent Dubois: I would encourage fans to be patient and supportive. Pinturault’s journey is a testament to the determination and grit required to overcome adversity in elite sports. His decision to skip Wengen and focus on his recovery is a sign of his commitment to returning stronger than ever. Keep an eye on his performances in Kitzbühel and Schladming—they’ll be key indicators of his progress.
For more updates on Alexis Pinturault’s recovery and the latest in alpine skiing, stay tuned to world-today-news.com.
