#Switzerland #LAAX #Monster Energy #Gaon Choi #Birk Ruud

Monster Energy's Triumphs at the 2026 LAAX OPEN

The renowned LAAX OPEN, held from January 14-18, 2026, on Crap Sogn Gion Mountain in Switzerland, showcased some of the finest talents in the world of freeski and snowboarding. Backed by Monster Energy, an impressive array of athletes achieved podium finishes in several key categories, emphasizing their skills and dedication.

Celebrating Victories in Snowboard Events

Among the standout performers, 17-year-old Gaon Choi from South Korea secured a remarkable first-place victory in the Women's Snowboard Halfpipe. After a strong showing at Copper Mountain in December, Choi's performance at LAAX OPEN further solidified her position as a top competitor. Despite experiencing a tough fall on her first attempt, she rebounded with an incredible second run, executing a series of complex tricks—including a frontside 1080—and scoring 92.50 points.

"I'm so proud of me. I want to work harder," expressed Choi upon claiming her victory, making this her first win at LAAX OPEN.

In the Women's Snowboard Slopestyle event, 21-year-old Kokomo Murase from Japan dazzled the crowd, also taking home the gold. Murase showcased her prowess with a high-scoring run that included intricate rail tricks and solid spins, landing her victory with a score of 77.55 points. Meanwhile, Lily Dhawornvej, a 16-year-old from Colorado, marked her career milestone with a second-place finish, contributing to a remarkable day for Monster Energy.

Dominance in Freeski Competitions

Men's Freeski Slopestyle

Turning to the freeskiing arena, Birk Ruud, the defending champion and reigning FIS Freeski Slopestyle World Champion, continued his dominance by securing first place with an astoundingly technical first run, accumulating 85.08 points. His smooth combination of tricks not only showcased his skills but also hinted at his potential bid for a three-peat victory at the LAAX OPEN.

Following Ruud was Evan McEachran, an impressive 28-year-old Canadian athlete, who clinched third place, showcasing his technical ability, including a complex series of spins and grabs.

Men's Snowboard Halfpipe

In the Men's Snowboard Halfpipe competition, Campbell Melville Ives from New Zealand delivered a stunning performance that earned him the silver medal with a backdrop of high expectations from the audience. His run included two historic triple cork airs, a groundbreaking feat in the sport.

Competitive Landscape

The atmosphere during the LAAX OPEN was electric, drawing nearly 300 athletes from around the globe to test their mettle against elite competition. As an official FIS World Cup event, the LAAX OPEN also served as a vital opportunity for athletes aiming to qualify for the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. This aspect heightened the intensity of competition and underscored the event's significance.

Looking Forward

As excitement builds within the snow sports community, upcoming key events like the X Games Aspen later this month promise to keep fans on the edge of their seats. The 25th Anniversary Edition of the Winter X Games is set to take place in Aspen Snowmass, Colorado, showcasing new challenges for athletes once again eager to demonstrate their skills.

For more details on Monster Energy's remarkable snow sports athletes, including Gaon Choi, Birk Ruud, and many others, stay tuned to Monster Energy's official website and their various social media platforms for exclusive highlights and updates.

In conclusion, the accomplishments of Monster Energy's athletes at the 2026 LAAX OPEN served as a powerful reminder of their talent and determination, making substantial strides as we look forward to future competitions on the world stage.