Here Feller wrote the dead friend's name in the snow. © APA/afp / JOE KLAMAR

Mourning the loss of a good friend: Feller's emotional bullet win

Manuel Feller fulfilled a dream on Sunday and received a crystal ball for the first time in his career. It became an emotional story for the Austrian ski star.

March 17, 2024

From: det

Almost 14.000 fans cheered Manuel Feller in the finish area in Saalbach-Hinterglemm, and it got emotional. The North Tyrolean, who had just picked up his small crystal ball for the overall slalom victory, knelt down, placed the ball next to him, drew something in the snow with his finger and then looked up at the sky.

Feller then explained what this special gesture was all about in an ORF interview. “Yes, it is very emotional for me. “I wrote the name of a friend who unfortunately died a year and a half ago in the snow,” said the 31-year-old.

Feller was able to celebrate his first crystal ball. © APA / GEORG HOCHMUTH

“Although he didn't have much to do with skiing, he really influenced me and my friends' personalities. I definitely wouldn't be the person I am today if it weren't for him. I just wanted to share a short moment with him,” said the Austrian.

Grandma cheers for him

A very emotional story for Manuel Feller, who appeared on Sunday Last season slalom second behind Timon Haugan became. However, the Austrian was already confirmed as the winner of the small crystal ball before the race, which was a dream come true for him.

Saalbach-Hinterglemm celebrated Manuel Feller. © APA/afp / JOE KLAMAR

On Sunday, the 13.600 fans also included numerous of Feller's companions, such as his grandmother, who cheered on his grandson live as he lifted the crystal ball. “It's just wonderful, especially in front of a home crowd. It’s the best thing you can imagine,” said Slalom King Feller.