Ski legends explain the phenomenon
«That makes Odermatt almost invincible!»
Also this season Marco Odermatt (25) is the measure of all things in the giant slalom. In Adelboden, the Nidwaldner wants to claim his fourth win in the fifth race, explaining former winners of the “Chuenisbärgli” what makes him so strong.
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In 2022, the Adelboden winner in the giant slalom was Marco Odermatt. again this year?
Marcel W. Perrenski reporter
Marco Odermatt dominated the first half of this giant slalom season with every trick in the book. The 25-year-old won three out of four World Cup giants (Sölden, Val-d’Isère and Alta Badia). What sets the Nidwaldner apart from the rest of the ski world? Three former Adelboden winners provide the answer.
Hans Knauss (Ö, 51, giant slalom winner 2003)
«Marco Odermatt is often compared to my outstanding compatriots Marcel Hirscher or Hermann Maier. But this sensationally triumphant Swiss stands out from its competitors with a completely different quality than the two Austrians did in previous years. Maier and Hirscher scored above all with their incredibly powerful driving style. Sure, Marco also has a lot of power. But what sets him even more apart on the skis is his unique instinct. He masters a lot of tricky racing situations with his ingenious feeling. And that’s why it can’t be copied by anyone, because instinct, unlike muscles, you can’t train. This gift is either given at birth or never at all. And that’s exactly why Marco Odermatt will be hard to beat in the years to come.”
Odermatt before Adelboden: «As soon as I reach the finish line, I soak up the mood»(02:14)
Marc Berthod (38, slalom winner 2007, giant triumphant 2008)
«Odi is a phenomenon for me in many ways. I am particularly fascinated by his mental strength. As soon as he is in the starting area, he can focus on the competition like no other. But he is also a master at switching off. He’s not one to worry about the weather or snow conditions in the days leading up to a race. And thanks to this carefree attitude off the slopes, he wastes a lot less energy than some of his opponents. »
Marc Girardelli (Lux, 59, giant slalom winner 1989 and 1991)
“I met Marco in person for the first time in December between the first and second giant slalom in Val-d’Isère. On this occasion, his gigantic torso caught my eye. In my opinion, this power paired with the ingenious technology make him almost invincible. But I also noticed during this encounter that he is much more approachable on a competition day like this than was the case with Marcel Hirscher. A few hours before the final run, he spoke to fans in a fairly relaxed manner, which was not possible with a Hirscher. Marco exudes a lot more joy.”
Odermatt about lack of snow: “In the next few years there will be more races like this”(01:22)
Odermatt cousin Jan Käslin: “Marco was unstoppable even as a child”(01:31)
Attention ski fans! Now quiz and type races
The 2022/2023 ski season is coming up and with it the “Blick Ski Trophy”: answer questions every day, type ski races and crown yourself as ski champion. Lots of great prizes await.
To take part in the “Blick Ski Trophy”, you have to register here.
Have fun and good luck!
The 2022/2023 ski season is coming up and with it the “Blick Ski Trophy”: answer questions every day, type ski races and crown yourself as ski champion. Lots of great prizes await.
To take part in the “Blick Ski Trophy”, you have to register here.
Have fun and good luck!