Nick Goepper’s quest for Olympic gold ended in dramatic fashion during the men’s halfpipe freestyle skiing final in Milan. The 35-year-old American entered his last run holding the bronze-medal position, knowing a stronger score could move him higher on the podium. Choosing ambition over caution, Goepper attempted a highly technical trick that broadcasters said had never been completed in competition.
Nick Goepper’s Daring Final Run Ends in Crash, Misses Olympic Podium in MilanHis run began with precision and control, as he cleanly landed his first four tricks. With momentum building, everything came down to the final jump. Goepper failed to generate enough height, caught the edge of the halfpipe, and crashed hard onto the ledge. He remained on the snow for several anxious moments while medical staff checked on him, and the crowd watched in silence. Relief followed when Goepper stood up on his own, smiled, and gave a reassuring thumbs-up before skiing away.
The fall proved costly. Canada’s Brendan MacKay later surpassed Goepper’s earlier score, pushing him off the podium and into fourth place. Still, the United States celebrated as Alex Ferreira claimed the gold medal. Goepper, already a three-time Olympic medalist, walked away expressing pride in his effort and saying he had no regrets about taking the risk.
