Breaking down the Freestyle opening weekend in Ruka

By Rudi Garmisch

The 2024/25 Moguls World Cup season kicked off this past weekend in Ruka, Finland, marking the 15th consecutive year the Arctic Circle venue has hosted the opener. This year's event delivered the magic we’ve come to expect, with stunning blue skies during the day and a surreal transformation into misty fog under the lights for the finals. As always, Ruka delivered a spectacular show.

While it’s hard to predict the season's trajectory from just one event, here are five key takeaways from the weekend:

Perrine Laffont is still the “Queen of Moguls”

After 623 days away from competition, Perrine Laffont made a strong return, taking her first win since March 2023. Even after a year off, her skiing is as sharp and controlled as ever, clearly reflecting the work she put in during the offseason. Her performance in Ruka wasn’t just a return; it was a clear message that she’s still at the top of her game. With her trademark style and consistency, Laffont showed once again why she’s one of the best mogul skiers in history. It’s a comeback story we’re all eager to follow this season.

Jakara Anthony makes history

Jakara Anthony may have taken second place in Ruka, but her performance was far from ordinary. By securing her 42nd career World Cup podium, Anthony surpassed Kirstie Marshall to become Australia’s most successful winter sports athlete at just 26 years old.

While Perrine Laffont stole the spotlight on Saturday, Anthony’s skiing was exceptional—showcasing the form that led her to dominate last season. With a World Championships gold the only accolade missing from her collection, Anthony’s rivalry with Laffont promises to be one of the most thrilling storylines of the winter.

Mikaël Kingsbury Is aging like fine wine

At 32 years old, Mikaël Kingsbury once again proved why he’s still the “King of Moguls.” Starting his 16th World Cup season, Kingsbury delivered a commanding performance that left no room for doubt. His Final 1 score of 85 points put him a solid six points ahead of the field. While the gap narrowed in the super final, he was, without question, the best skier on the day. 

Fatherhood during the offseason hasn’t slowed him down—in fact, Kingsbury looks sharper and more motivated than ever. The King isn’t just holding onto his throne; he’s showing no signs of stepping down anytime soon.

Ikuma Horishima is always raising the bar

Ikuma Horishima didn’t hold back as the reigning Moguls World Cup champion, starting the season with a bold statement. The Japanese skier executed a 1440—the first of the year and a rare move in mogul skiing—hinting that we might see a new level of technical progression this season.

While his time score in Ruka wasn’t enough to secure a win, his execution in the air and unmatched trick repertoire make it clear he’s ready to push boundaries again this season. If he can combine those massive tricks with a flawless run, as he did in Waterville last year, Horishima will be a serious contender to challenge Kingsbury for the crown in 2024/25.

The depth of the field is astonishing

Ruka highlighted just how competitive moguls skiing has become. The talent pool in both the men’s and women’s fields is deeper than ever, leaving no room for error. Even small mistakes can mean missing out on the top 16—a reality some experienced athletes faced despite regularly making finals last season.

For some nations, this depth is a strength. Sweden’s Walter Wallberg led the way for their stacked men’s team with a strong second-place finish, while Olivia Giaccio spearheaded an impressive U.S. women’s showing, with six athletes advancing to the finals.

Saturday wasn’t just about the podium—it was full of moments that kept the fans buzzing. Severi Vierela thrilled the home crowd with a standout Final 1 run, sitting in top-3 heading into the super final. While he couldn’t hold onto a podium spot, his performance highlighted his potential for the season. Maia Schwingammer also impressed with her consistency throughout the day, showing she’s a name to watch as the competition unfolds…

Ruka has set the stage for what promises to be a season for the books. With European events up next in December, the North American tour in January, the Asian stretch in February, and the Olympic test event in Livigno just before the World Championships, the road to St. Moritz is packed with opportunities for athletes to shine.

The calendar is set for incredible stories, and the athletes are ready to seize their moments to write them. The journey has just begun!