BREAKING: In an electrifying display of talent, the U.S. women’s freestyle ski team dominated the dual moguls competition at the World Cup in Val St. Come, Canada, sweeping the top four spots on January 6, 2024. This remarkable achievement solidifies their status as frontrunners for the upcoming Olympic Games.
Jaelin Kauf secured her place at the top of the podium, defeating Liz Lemley with a score of 23-12 in the final. “I was definitely going for the yellow bib, for the win today,” Kauf stated. “Having all these girls up there and sweeping the top-4 together — it’s pretty insane.”
Lemley, who recently made a comeback after an ACL injury that sidelined her last season, expressed her excitement: “I like mogul skiing and I’m happy to be here.” This event marks her first podium finish since 2024, proving her resilience and dedication.
Tess Johnson rounded out the podium by defeating Olivia Giaccio in the small final. Johnson, who has been a consistent performer this season, noted, “I literally haven’t been able to stop smiling all night. I’m so proud of all of us … This is incredible.”
The U.S. women last swept a moguls podium in 2021, showcasing their dominance in the sport. Johnson has been on the podium in three of four World Cups this season, including a win at the season opener and a runner-up finish just the night before in Val St. Come.
As the Olympic selection heats up, the U.S. can bring up to four women for the moguls events at the Milano Cortina Games this February. Kauf has already earned an automatic spot by winning last season’s moguls, dual moguls, and overall crystal globes. Up to two additional spots will be filled based on athletes’ best single top-three finishes at selection events.
Johnson and Kauf are the only Americans to win a World Cup during the selection period. Johnson’s impressive performances include a second-place finish and a third-place finish in Val St. Come, while Lemley’s second place marks her best finish this season.
Giaccio, who has reached the podium three times this season, emphasized the competitive spirit among her teammates: “Everyone is really pushing it right now and definitely making the Olympic qualifying really tough for sure.”
The final selection events will occur on January 15-16, 2026, in Waterville Valley, New Hampshire, leading up to the official qualification period ending on January 18, 2026. The entry list for the Olympics will be finalized by January 26, 2026.
This extraordinary performance by the U.S. women not only showcases their skills but also sets the stage for a thrilling Olympic season. Fans and supporters are eager to see how these athletes continue to elevate their game as they approach the pivotal qualifying events.
