Grønvold, who was a talented freestyle skier, represented Norway and won a bronze medal at the 2010 Winter Olympics. Before switching to freestyle, he had been an active member of Norway’s Alpine skiing team.
His achievements also include winning gold medals in downhill skiing at the Norwegian National Championship, securing the top spot two years in a row in 2003 and 2004.
However, he didn’t walk away from skiing completely. Instead, he stayed connected to the sport by coaching the national team and sharing his insights as a TV commentator, according to CNN.
Recently, Grønvold had been spending quality time on holiday with his wife and their three children when tragedy unexpectedly struck.
The news of his sudden death was made public by the Norwegian ski federation the following day.
“It is with great sadness that we have received the news of Audun Grønvold’s untimely passing.” the federation shared. “The former national alpine skier and ski cross athlete was recently struck by lightning during a cabin trip.”
Tove Moe Dyrhaug, president of the Norwegian ski federation, expressed deep sorrow. She shared that Grønvold’s passing meant the sport had lost a key figure and that his absence would be profoundly felt.
Grønvold’s wife, Kristin Tandberg Haugsjå, also spoke out to honor her late husband’s memory and legacy.
“Although you quickly received treatment and were taken to hospital, you died from your injuries last night. Sanna, Selma, William and I will carry you with us in our hearts. The loss of you is enormous.”
Fellow Norwegian alpine skiing legend, Kjetil André Aamodt, also shared his heartfelt condolences for the father-of-three.
Aamodt went on to explain that Grønvold had stood out as “one of the fastest and most agile athletes” during tests conducted at the Olympic summit, a testament to his remarkable athletic ability.