The first gold medalist of the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics has emerged in the form of Swiss alpine skier Franjo von Almen, known as the 'snow sculptor.' On February 7, 2023, at the Stelvio Ski Centre in Bormio, Italy, von Almen claimed victory in the men's downhill race with a time of 1 minute 51.61 seconds. This achievement marks him as the fifth Olympic champion in downhill skiing from Switzerland, following Beat Feuz, who secured the gold in the 2022 Beijing Olympics before retiring. Von Almen's victory was celebrated in front of around 7,000 enthusiastic local fans, with Italy's Giovanni Francioni taking the silver and compatriot Dominique Paris winning bronze, marking his first medal in his fifth Olympic appearance.

At just 24, von Almen has made a name for himself in alpine skiing, especially after showcasing explosive talent during the 2024-2025 season. He previously experienced a remarkable ascent to the top, winning the championship at the 2025 Zaldabach World Championships after debuting in the 2023 World Cup. His background is unique; he spent his summers working in construction while undergoing carpentry training, which he credits as part of his identity as an athlete. In a mixed zone interview following his win, he expressed a surreal connection to carpentry, comparing the satisfaction of crossing the finish line to that of a perfectly crafted piece of furniture fitting into place, indicating the depth of his passion for both skiing and woodworking.

Dealing with personal tragedy, von Almen faced the loss of his father at just 17, pushing him to the brink of abandoning skiing due to financial struggles. However, with the assistance of crowdfunding, he was able to finance his training, leading to his selection for the national team, a journey that culminated in his Olympic triumph. Growing up in the small village of Boltigen, his success has inspired local pride, and this trajectory highlights the dedication and resilience behind an athlete who not only excels on the slopes but also carries the legacy of craftsmanship and personal struggle in his heart.