UPDATE: The U.S. women’s mogul skiing team made history today, sweeping the top four spots in the dual moguls competition at the World Cup in Val St. Come, Canada. Jaelin Kauf clinched victory, solidifying her place in the Olympic conversation as she defeated Liz Lemley in the final with a score of 23-12.
Kauf expressed her excitement, stating, “I was definitely going for the yellow bib, for the win today, just trying to leave it all out there. It made it all that (much) better having all these girls up there and sweeping the top-4 together — it’s pretty insane.”
Liz Lemley, celebrating her first podium finish since an ACL injury last season, remarked, “I like mogul skiing and I’m happy to be here.” Her performance today marks a significant comeback as she looks toward the upcoming Olympics.
Tess Johnson rounded out the American dominance by defeating Olivia Giaccio in the small final. Johnson, who has been on the podium in three of four World Cup events this season, shared her joy: “I literally haven’t been able to stop smiling all night. I’m so proud of all of us … This is incredible.”
The last time American women swept a moguls podium was in 2021 in Deer Valley, marking a significant milestone in U.S. skiing history.
This victory comes as the U.S. Olympic selection intensifies. The U.S. can send up to four women to compete in moguls at the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics. Kauf has already secured an automatic spot after winning the moguls, dual moguls, and overall crystal globes last season. Up to two additional spots will be determined based on athletes’ best finishes at selection events.
Johnson and Kauf remain the only Americans to have won a World Cup during this Olympic selection period. Johnson’s second-best result this season is a second-place finish, while Lemley achieved her best finish of the season today, setting her sights on future competitions.
The qualification period for Olympic freestyle skiing concludes on January 18, 2026, with final selections made on January 26, 2026. The last Olympic qualifier will take place on January 15-16 in Waterville Valley, New Hampshire.
Olivia Giaccio highlighted the competitive atmosphere, stating, “Everyone is really pushing it right now and definitely making the Olympic qualifying really tough for sure.”
The U.S. women’s mogul skiing team is not just competing; they are making a statement. Their remarkable achievement today in Val St. Come not only elevates their status but also inspires a new generation of athletes aiming for Olympic glory.
