Interview with Alexis Monney

The 26-year-old Swiss skier Alexis Monney is one of the best international skiers. He ranks third in the 2024-25 World Cup downhill standings. Behind his calm demeanor and ultra-precise style, he is a competitor who is always in search of speed, thrills, and progress. Let's find out what goes on behind the helmet—in the mind and life of one of the world's best skiers.

Alexis, you are often seen as someone who is calm and collected—is that really who you are on a daily basis, or do you hide another side that we don't know about?

No, that's really how I am in real life. I don't want to play a character because I find it easier to just be myself.

With all the expectations and demands, how do you manage the pressure?

I focus on myself and try as much as possible to ski for myself and for my own enjoyment. This isn't always easy, because sometimes certain media outlets or even fans expect results... but that's life as an athlete!

In the seconds before the start, what little thing do you do to feel ready?

Just before the start, I talk to myself. I repeat technical instructions to myself, and the last words I say to myself are always: "Have fun!"

On or off the track, who are the people who inspire you the most—or who push you to excel, even without knowing it?

My teammates. We have a great dynamic, and that always helps us push ourselves, even in training.

If there was one thing you would want people to really understand about the life of a pro skier, what would it be?

We are happy to take photos and sign autographs. It would be great if people were ready to take the photo when they come to ask. That way, we save time.

In your suitcase, there's bound to be something useless but indispensable to you—what is it?

I take a book and my pillow with me everywhere I go, because sometimes, in hotels, they are not to my liking.

Who is your best ally on the team, the one you can always count on behind the scenes?

I want to say everyone. But if I had to name a few, there would be Arnaud Boisset, Justin Murisier, and Marco Kohler.

And on the circuit, who pushes you the most or with whom do you share the most memorable moments?

It's a complicated question, because we play our sport as a team, but the result is down to the individual. What I mean is that if I have a bad race and a teammate has a great one, I'll find it hard to really enjoy their emotions, because I'll be disappointed in myself. I think the opposite is also normal. But when the team achieves a good result, it's always cool to share it, because it motivates us and pushes us to go faster in the next races!

After your amazing hair extravaganza at the World Championships in Saalbach, does Team Chiens Fous have something in store for us this season?

We'll see if anything happens!