The 2024/25 FIS Freestyle World Cup season began on a high note in Ruka, Finland, as top moguls athletes delivered stellar performances. Amid the crisp winter conditions, some familiar faces took center stage, securing podium finishes and giving fans a thrilling start to the season.
Laffont’s Emotional Comeback Victory
Perrine Laffont of France, a five-time World Champion, made an inspiring return to competition after a year-long break. All eyes were on Laffont ahead of the women’s moguls event, and the 26-year-old did not disappoint. Delivering a fast and technically flawless run in the superfinal, she scored 81.13 points to take first place in an emotional triumph.
Tears streaming down her face, Laffont struggled to put her feelings into words after securing her third career win in Ruka. “I don’t know what to say,” she said. “It was really hard to come back. I just want to thank my team, because without them, I wouldn’t do it alone. Thanks to them, thanks to the work that we’ve done. It’s hard to believe. This is crazy, it’s like a dream. I’m just super happy right now.”
Australia’s Jakara Anthony, last year’s champion in Ruka, claimed second place with a score of 80.00, making her the only other skier in the women’s competition to break the 80-point barrier. Reflecting on her performance, Anthony said, “It’s exciting to be back in the gates. It’s been a while since we last competed. To kick off the season here is like coming home.”
Rounding out the podium was Olivia Giaccio of the United States, who repeated last year’s third-place finish with a strong score of 76.95. However, her fellow American and last year’s runner-up, Elizabeth Lemley, had to miss the event due to a knee injury. The FIS extended well wishes for her speedy recovery.
Kingsbury’s Victory as a New Father
On the men’s side, moguls legend Mikael Kingsbury once again lived up to his title as the “King of Moguls.” Kingsbury delivered a masterful performance on the demanding Battery Run course, earning 83.90 points to claim his 11th victory in Ruka and his 91st overall World Cup title.
While Kingsbury is no stranger to winning, this victory held special significance—it was his first as a new dad. Celebrating with his three-month-old son Henrik in Finland, Kingsbury called it one of the most meaningful wins of his career. “It’s so cool to have my family here and win in front of my kid,” said the Canadian star. “It’s super special, and probably among the top three (wins) in my career, just because he’s here. I love Ruka – it’s one of my favorites on the circuit. It’s good to get the momentum, get the yellow bib, and start the season well.”
Sweden’s Walter Wallberg, the reigning Olympic champion, showcased his speed and skill, earning 81.14 points to secure second place. Japan’s Ikuma Horishima, last season’s Crystal Globe winner, clinched third with 80.51 points, thanks to a strong performance punctuated by an impressive 1440 move on the bottom jump.
Next Stop on the Moguls World Cup Tour
With the season opener in the books, athletes and teams now look ahead to the next event in Idre, Sweden. The technical and high-stakes Moguls and Dual Moguls competitions are scheduled to take place from December 6-7, promising more excitement as the tour continues.
