Freestyle skier Mikaël Kingsbury decided to sit out of the dual moguls competition on Saturday following his victory in the men’s moguls event the day before, marking his 100th career World Cup win. This event at Val Saint-Come, Que., was Kingsbury’s first appearance this season as he had to miss the season opener due to a groin injury. Despite his triumph on Friday, Kingsbury expressed uncertainty about competing on consecutive days. However, his spokesperson confirmed on Saturday that the Canadian athlete would not be participating in the dual moguls competition.
The spokesperson explained that this decision aligns with Kingsbury’s strategic plan to gradually return to competition and ensure his optimal health for the upcoming Olympic Games. The Milan Cortina Winter Olympics are set to commence on February 6, where dual moguls will be introduced as an Olympic discipline. Kingsbury has a remarkable record at the Olympics, having secured gold in moguls in 2018 and silver in 2014 and 2022. Additionally, he boasts nine gold medals in moguls and dual moguls from world championship events.
In the men’s dual moguls competition, nine other Canadian skiers took part, while nine Canadian women also competed in the dual moguls event on Saturday.