The pursuit of Olympic gold is often framed in platitudes – enjoying the journey, focusing on personal bests, and the like. But for U.S. Free skier Alex Ferreira, 31, the ambition is starkly, refreshingly direct. “It’s time to complete the set,” he told TIME this past August, referring to the silver and bronze medals he’s already earned at the last two Winter Games. “I’ve dedicated my entire life to the sport and to being the best of the best. That is the one achievement that eludes me at the moment. It’s the first thing I believe about when I wake up, and the last thing I think about when I go to sleep at night. It completely consumes my mind, probably in an unhealthy way.” As Ferreira prepares to compete at the Milano Cortina Olympics, beginning February 6th, that single-minded focus is driving him forward.
Ferreira’s dedication has already yielded significant success. In 2025, he secured his third Crystal Globe, recognizing him as the world’s top halfpipe skier, and his second consecutive title. He’s poised to contend for the elusive gold medal at the Milano Cortina Olympics, with the halfpipe freeski final scheduled for February 20th in Livigno, Italy. But the road to this point hasn’t been without its challenges, and a near derailment forced a reckoning that ultimately strengthened his resolve.
Born and raised in Aspen, Colorado, Ferreira discovered his passion for skiing at a young age. He recalls the exhilaration of landing his first 360 at age 10, a moment that cemented his life’s path. “I remember it being the most euphoric feeling in my entire life,” he said. “I loved it as there was so much freedom…and then once I started figuring out the tricks in the air, I figured, ‘Oh my gosh, What we have is a feeling you can’t buy.’ And I still experience that way to this day. It’s like floating through air, and you’re creating art with your body.”
From Olympic Silver to “Hotdog Hans”
Ferreira first tasted Olympic success at the 2018 PyeongChang Games, earning a silver medal behind teammate David Wise. The two skiers share a bond that extends beyond the podium. But Ferreira’s presence extends beyond the competitive circuit. During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, he created “Hotdog Hans,” a comedic alter ego – a cantankerous, old-school skier who playfully disrupts the slopes. Inspired by Kyrie Irving’s “Uncle Drew” character, Hotdog Hans quickly gained a following online, with clips garnering over 12 million views on YouTube. One such clip shows Hans wreaking havoc at a ski resort. Hotdog Hans 6, released in January, features a playful confrontation with 1998 Olympic gold medalist Jonny Moseley.
“People are dying, people are sick, people are upset,” Ferreira explained. “We needed to bring some comedy and some humor into everyone’s lives.” The character provided a much-needed distraction during a difficult time, showcasing Ferreira’s ability to connect with audiences beyond his athletic prowess.
A Turning Point and Renewed Focus
Despite his success, Ferreira faced a significant setback more than a year after winning bronze at the 2022 Beijing Olympics. Attending his 10-year high school reunion, he crashed his bike while intoxicated, sustaining an injury that threatened his career. “I’m sitting there thinking, ‘Wow, what a foolish way to conclude my season prematurely and potentially my career,’” he recalled. The incident prompted a complete lifestyle change. He stopped drinking, abandoned partying, and refocused entirely on his sport.
“I quit drinking. I quit going out partying. Quit chasing girls. Quit everything. I just dedicated everything that I possibly had to my sport and to my craft and to being a true champion,” Ferreira said. The commitment paid off, as he went on to win the next two halfpipe Crystal Globes, solidifying his position as a dominant force in the sport. He hasn’t had a drink since that night in August 2023.
The Pursuit of Gold in Milano Cortina
Ferreira acknowledges the mental toll of his relentless pursuit. He’s visualized success countless times, employing affirmations to reinforce his belief in achieving gold. “I’ve seen it a million times in my head,” he says. “I’ve spoken it into reality a million times through affirmation. I, Alex Ferreira, will be the 2026 gold medalist.” He understands that the pressure is immense, but he believes he’s prepared to handle it.
As he stands on the cusp of his third Olympic Games, Ferreira is confident in his preparation and unwavering in his ambition. He anticipates a celebratory moment should he reach the top of the podium, but remains focused on the task at hand. “It’s going to be a glorious, glorious day and party,” he said. “People can expect to spot greatness. That’s what I see in myself.” The men’s halfpipe freeski final at the Milano Cortina Olympics on February 20th will be a pivotal moment, not just for Ferreira, but for the sport itself.
Following the Olympic competition, Ferreira is expected to return to the World Cup circuit, with potential appearances at events in Canada and the United States. Fans and followers can stay updated on his progress and schedule through his official Instagram account, @alexferreiraski.
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