Felix Monsén, a 30-year-old Swedish alpine skier, is experiencing a resurgence in his career this season after being removed from the Swedish national alpine A-team. Competing independently, he has demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination, culminating in impressive performances in the Kitzbühel races. His recent results showcase not only his skiing prowess but also his unwavering commitment to the sport, even in the face of adversity. This renewed vigour suggests a promising trajectory for the seasoned skier.
Monsén’s standout performance came in Friday’s super-G race at Kitzbühel, one of the most demanding and prestigious stops on the World Cup circuit. He achieved a career-best tenth place finish, a remarkable feat considering the challenging nature of the course and the fierce competition he faced. This remarkable result underscored his technical abilities and mental fortitude, solidifying his position as a competitive force on the world stage. It also marked a significant turning point in his season, providing a much-needed boost of confidence and momentum.
Building on his super-G success, Monsén delivered another strong performance in Saturday’s downhill race. Despite starting with bib number 49, a disadvantage that often translates to less favourable course conditions, he finished with a time just 1.45 seconds behind the winner, James Crawford of Canada. This impressive run landed him in 22nd place, earning him valuable World Cup points. His consistent performance across both disciplines highlighted his versatility and adaptability on different terrains and under varying race conditions.
Monsén’s jubilant reaction in the finish area after both races spoke volumes about his personal triumph. The raw emotion displayed was a testament to the dedication, hard work, and perseverance he invested in his independent training regime. His strong result, especially in the context of his removal from the national team, demonstrates the power of self-belief and the potential to achieve even when facing setbacks. It served as an inspiring reminder that athletes can overcome challenges and achieve personal best performances through resilience and commitment.
The nine World Cup points earned in Kitzbühel’s downhill race are crucial for Monsén’s future prospects. Accumulating points directly impacts his starting position in subsequent races, granting him a competitive edge. Higher start numbers often mean better course conditions, which can significantly influence performance. Therefore, Monsén’s performance in Kitzbühel serves as a stepping stone to improve his standing in the World Cup rankings and enhance his chances of success in future competitions. This positive feedback loop will further motivate him to continue pushing boundaries and strive for even greater achievements.
Monsén’s recent success at Kitzbühel builds upon previous strong results, including a 13th place finish in the downhill at Lake Louise, Canada in November 2021. This consistent record demonstrates his enduring capabilities and suggests that his resurgence is not a fleeting moment but rather a sustained improvement in his overall performance. As he continues to compete independently, Monsén’s journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and a testament to the power of self-belief, dedication, and hard work. His future races will be closely watched as he continues to strive for higher rankings and further cement his place among the world’s elite alpine skiers.
