"Thank you, Mom, for making me out of rubber."

The second Super-G in Soldeu (Andorra) began with a scary moment on Sunday: An Italian skier crashed heavily but miraculously escaped injury. She then showed her sense of humor.

March 01, 2026

From: leo

Roberta Melesi is having the best season of her career. The 29-year-old from Lombardy finished in the top 15 four times, and even came fourth in the Super-G in Crans-Montana before the Olympic Games. Despite this, it wasn't enough for an Olympic nomination. Melesi was all the more motivated going into the race in Soldeu. However, the weekend didn't go as the Italian had hoped.

After missing a gate in Friday's downhill, she finished 21st in the first Super-G. The following day, Melesi gave it her all, but the risk didn't pay off. The former giant slalom skier crashed in the technically demanding middle section, twisting her left knee, but escaped injury. Shortly after the disappointment of her crash subsided, she raised her arm to signal that she was okay.

Roberta Melesi was eliminated. © Pentaphoto

Melesi crossed the finish line on her own two feet, where she thanked her mother: "Thank you for making me out of rubber. Now I will prepare for the next races in Italy," said Melesi, who added on social media: "I feel deeply grateful to be able to leave Soldeu healthy. Some days remind you that a single moment can change everything. I'm fine, just a few minor aches and pains, nothing serious."