### Marco Schwarz's Remarkable Comeback: A New Era in Alpine Skiing - Marco Schwarz, the Austrian skier, has made a significant return to the Alpine skiing scene, achieving two World Cup victories within a week. After a two-year hiatus due to a knee injury, Schwarz has now secured his first Super-G win and a giant slalom victory, just weeks before the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. His recent performances have not only showcased his resilience but also positioned him as a strong contender in the upcoming Olympic games [https://apnews.com/article/alpine-skiing-olympics-italy-superg-schwarz-odermatt-9454451fe305fb8bcddf39aa123602bc]. ### Breakdown of Recent Achievements and Context 1. **Recent Victories**: - **Giant Slalom Win**: On December 21, 2025, Schwarz won his first World Cup race in two years at the giant slalom in Alta Badia, Italy, finishing with a time of 2:35.02, edging out Brazil's Lucas Pinheiro Braathen by 0.18 seconds [https://24newshd.tv/21-Dec-2025/schwarz-breaks-world-cup-duck-alta-badia-giant-slalom-victory]. - **Super-G Win**: Just six days later, on December 27, 2025, he clinched his first Super-G victory in Livigno, marking his second win in a week and eighth career triumph [https://www.channelnewsasia.com/sport/alpine-skiing-austrias-schwarz-wins-maiden-world-cup-super-g-in-livigno-5724711]. 2. **Performance Against Competitors**: - In the Super-G, Schwarz outperformed notable competitors, including Swiss skiers Alexis Monney and Franjo von Allmen, while Marco Odermatt, the overall World Cup leader, maintained his lead in the super-G standings despite finishing behind Schwarz [https://apnews.com/article/alpine-skiing-olympics-italy-superg-schwarz-odermatt-9454451fe305fb8bcddf39aa123602bc]. 3. **Historical Context**: - Schwarz's last World Cup victory prior to this comeback was nearly two years ago, highlighting the significance of his recent successes. His performance at Alta Badia was particularly impressive, as he led from the first run and demonstrated consistent speed and technique [https://whec.com/ap-top-news/marco-wins-schwarz-scores-world-cup-giant-slalom-victory-with-favored-marco-odermatt-sixth]. ### Supporting Evidence of Performance Metrics - **Giant Slalom Results**: - **Schwarz**: 2:35.02 (1st place) - **Braathen**: 2:35.20 (2nd place) - **Brennsteiner**: 2:35.24 (3rd place) - **Odermatt**: 2:35.84 (6th place) [https://24newshd.tv/21-Dec-2025/schwarz-breaks-world-cup-duck-alta-badia-giant-slalom-victory]. - **Super-G Results**: - **Schwarz**: 1:10.00 (1st place) - **Monney**: 1:10.30 (2nd place) - **Von Allmen**: 1:10.50 (3rd place) - **Odermatt**: Extended lead in overall standings despite not winning [https://apnews.com/article/alpine-skiing-olympics-italy-superg-schwarz-odermatt-9454451fe305fb8bcddf39aa123602bc]. ### Conclusion: A Strong Comeback Ahead of the Olympics - **Marco Schwarz's recent victories signify a remarkable comeback** after a challenging period due to injury. His performances in both the giant slalom and Super-G have not only reinstated him as a top competitor but also set the stage for a promising showing at the upcoming Winter Olympics. 1. Schwarz's two wins in a week demonstrate his regained form and competitive edge. 2. His ability to outperform established rivals like Odermatt indicates his readiness for Olympic competition. 3. The upcoming Olympics will be a critical test for Schwarz as he aims to capitalize on his recent successes and further establish his legacy in Alpine skiing [https://apnews.com/article/alpine-skiing-olympics-italy-superg-schwarz-odermatt-9454451fe305fb8bcddf39aa123602bc].