Shiffrin Takes Lead in Skiing World Cup Opener After 1st Run as Overall Champion Gut-Behrami Sits Out – U.S. News & World Report

In an exciting start to the skiing season, American skier Mikaela Shiffrin has taken the lead in the World Cup opener after the first run, with overall champion Lara Gut-Behrami not starting the race.

Shiffrin, known for her technical skills and consistency on the slopes, put down a blistering first run in the giant slalom event, setting herself up for a strong position heading into the second run. With Gut-Behrami, the reigning overall World Cup champion, not competing in the race, Shiffrin has the opportunity to make a statement early in the season.

The absence of Gut-Behrami, who has been a dominant force in alpine skiing in recent years, opens the door for Shiffrin and other competitors to establish themselves as early contenders for the overall title. Shiffrin, a three-time overall World Cup champion, is no stranger to the pressure of competing at the highest level and will be looking to build on her strong start in the opener.

As the skiing world turns its attention to the rest of the season, all eyes will be on Shiffrin as she looks to continue her impressive form and challenge for the overall title once again. With Gut-Behrami out of the picture for the opener, Shiffrin has a golden opportunity to make a strong statement and lay down a marker for the rest of the competition.