LILLEHAMMER, Norway - Atle Lie McGrath won the World Cup slalom Crystal Globe on home snow, capping a resilient season marked by Olympic disappointment and his grandfather’s death.
The 25-year-old U.S.-born Norwegian finished eighth in the final race to secure the title by 64 points over France’s Clément Noël. Brazil’s Lucas Pinheiro Braathen placed third overall.
"It's the best day of my life, really," said an emotional McGrath after receiving the globe. "To win my first one at home… I've been going the past two weeks not sleeping, struggling to eat."
Last month in Bormio, McGrath led the Olympic slalom before straddling a gate-just days after his grandfather died during the opening ceremony.
"I really miss my grandfather today. I wish he was here-but I know he's watching," McGrath said. "Even in your toughest period, you can still see the sun."
Pinheiro Braathen, a former Norwegian teammate and close friend, missed the slalom title after failing to finish his second run. He had already secured the giant slalom Globe the day before-the first for Brazil.
Timon Haugan won Wednesday’s race; Marco Odermatt claimed the overall, downhill, and super-G titles.