Australia Wins Two Gold Medals in Moguls at 2026 Winter Olympics

Australia has won two gold medals in the moguls events at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Cooper Woods won the men's moguls and Jakara Anthony won the women's dual moguls. These wins show Australia's growing strength in winter sports.
By Newsroom | Winter Sports, Australia |

The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina have marked a significant period for Australian winter sports, with athletes securing multiple gold medals in freestyle skiing events. This follows a historical pattern of consistent medal wins for Australia at the Winter Games, though the nation is not traditionally a powerhouse in colder-climate sports.

Australian Dominance in Moguls Events

Australia has achieved notable success in the moguls competitions at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. Cooper Woods claimed gold in the men's moguls event, a win that was particularly historic. Woods, who had not previously won a World Cup gold, delivered Australia's first podium finish of the Games in this event. His victory came in a close super final where he matched the score of Canadian legend Mikaël Kingsbury but won on a tie-breaker for superior turn scores. Fellow Australians Matt Graham and Jackson Harvey also reached the super final, finishing fifth and eighth respectively.

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Winter Olympics 2026: Brazil aiming for historic first medal; Australian gold in women’s dual moguls – live - 1

Shortly after, Jakara Anthony secured a gold medal in the women's dual moguls. Her win in the dual moguls offered a personal triumph after what was described as disappointment in the singles event. Anthony's performance cemented Australia's strong showing in the freestyle skiing disciplines.

The dual success in moguls highlights a focused area of strength for the Australian team at these Games.

Winter Olympics 2026: Brazil aiming for historic first medal; Australian gold in women’s dual moguls – live - 2

Australia's Consistent Winter Olympic Performance

The 2026 Winter Olympics continue a trend for Australia, which has won at least one medal at every Winter Olympics since claiming its first medal, a bronze, at the 1994 Lillehammer Games. In the previous 2022 Beijing Games, Australia achieved its best-ever result with four medals: one gold, two silver, and one bronze. The 2026 team, comprising 53 athletes, is Australia's second-largest winter squad and its biggest in 12 years, signaling continued investment and ambition in winter sports.

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Despite geographical and climatic challenges, Australia has demonstrated a sustained ability to compete and succeed on the world stage of winter sports.

Winter Olympics 2026: Brazil aiming for historic first medal; Australian gold in women’s dual moguls – live - 3

Medal Landscape and Competitive Context

While Australia celebrates its moguls gold medals, the overall medal count for the 2026 Games is a dynamic entity. Reports indicate the United States, Norway, and other traditional winter sports nations are also contenders for top positions on the leaderboard. The competition is extensive, with various countries vying for medals across disciplines such as giant slalom, skeleton, ice hockey, and figure skating.

The narrative of Australia's success at the Winter Olympics often involves overcoming perceptions of a nation not typically associated with winter sports, given its warmer climate. Many Australian ski resorts rely on machine-made snow, a detail that underscores the dedication required for its athletes to reach the elite level.

Read More: Jakara Anthony Wins First Ever Olympic Dual Moguls Gold

Winter Olympics 2026: Brazil aiming for historic first medal; Australian gold in women’s dual moguls – live - 4

Expert and Media Observations

Media coverage has emphasized the unexpected nature of Cooper Woods' victory, with some noting he was an outsider against established champions. His emotional reaction to becoming an Olympic champion was widely reported, as was a lighthearted remark about his medal resembling a "nice-looking beer coaster."

The focus on individual achievements within the broader team effort reflects the personal journeys of the athletes at the Olympic Games. The inclusion of Brazil aiming for its first medal, as mentioned in an initial report headline, adds another layer to the global narrative of emerging nations seeking to make their mark in winter sports.

Broader Australian Winter Sports History

Australia's journey in the Winter Olympics began with its first medal in 1994. Since then, the nation has consistently added to its medal tally, demonstrating a growing proficiency. Prior to the 2026 Games, six Australian athletes had won gold medals at the Winter Olympics. The consistent presence on the medal table suggests a maturing sports program that can identify and develop talent in specialized disciplines.

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The ongoing performance of Australian athletes in events like moguls indicates strategic development and support within specific sports.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who won gold for Australia in the men's moguls?
Cooper Woods won the gold medal in the men's moguls event. It was Australia's first medal of the Games.
Q: Did Australia win gold in the women's moguls too?
Yes, Jakara Anthony won the gold medal in the women's dual moguls event.
Q: Is this a big achievement for Australia?
Yes, Australia is not known for winter sports but has won medals at every Winter Olympics since 1994. These gold medals show they are getting stronger.