Ted Ligety

Ted Ligety is a retired American alpine ski racer who is widely regarded as one of the most successful and innovative athletes in the sport's history. Ligety began skiing at a young age and quickly showed promise, making his World Cup debut in 2003. He rose to prominence in 2006 when he won the gold medal in the men's combined event at the Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy, becoming the first American man to win the event since 1984.

Ligety’s dominance in the giant slalom (GS) discipline earned him the nickname "Mr. GS." From 2008 to 2015, he won five World Cup giant slalom season titles, establishing himself as the best in the discipline during that period. His technical prowess and unique style, characterized by his aggressive turns and innovative equipment use, revolutionized the giant slalom, making him a fierce competitor on the World Cup circuit. In 2013, he further cemented his legacy by winning three gold medals at the World Championships in Schladming, Austria—a feat unmatched in over 45 years.

Throughout his career, Ligety captured 25 World Cup victories, including 24 in giant slalom and one in super combined, placing him among the top American ski racers of all time. He also added another Olympic gold medal to his collection in the giant slalom at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics. Ligety’s achievements extended beyond racing; he co-founded the company Shred, which produces innovative ski gear and equipment.

Ligety announced his retirement from competitive skiing in February 2021, just days before the World Championships in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy. Since then, he has focused on his family and entrepreneurial ventures, including expanding Shred and sharing his expertise through coaching and mentorship. He also has served as an NBC analyst, brand ambassador, and content creator, working with brands like Land Rover, Apple, Deer Valley, GoPro, etc.