Champagne, selfies and celebrations: Winter Olympians return to Australia in style
Sydney Morning Herald
by Tom DecentFebruary 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Cooper Woods, Danielle Scott, and Daisy Thomas, three standout athletes from Australia’s most successful Winter Olympics team, returned home to Sydney with a hero’s welcome. The trio, including Woods who claimed gold in men’s moguls, were celebrated at Sydney Airport with champagne, selfies, and enthusiastic fans waving green-and-gold pom poms. Woods, who initially thought his return would be low-key like previous visits, was surprised by the overwhelming excitement from fans, family, and media.
The event marked a historic moment for Australian winter sports, as the country achieved its best-ever performance at the Winter Olympics in Italy, finishing 14th on the medal tally with three golds, two silvers, and one bronze. Woods, Scott, and Thomas were met with cheers and admiration from supporters, reflecting the growing interest in winter sports Down Under. Woods humorously noted that he’s even had strangers asking if they can be his girlfriend—though he jokingly suggested a coffee date first.
The athletes’ return also highlighted the broader impact of their success. Woods emphasized how the team’s achievements have inspired a new belief in Australia’s potential on the global stage, particularly in winter sports—a traditionally less prominent area for the country. The momentum from Milano Cortina is expected to carry forward, with plans already underway to build toward future events like the 2030 Winter Olympics.
The enthusiastic reception at the airport symbolized more than just individual achievements—it showcased a cultural shift in how winter sports are perceived in Australia. Woods and his teammates have become national heroes, proving that even a small nation can punch well above its weight on the international stage. Their success has not only boosted their own careers but also sparked conversations about the future of winter sports in the country.
As they return to their hometowns and prepare for media commitments and upcoming events like the Australian Grand Prix, the athletes are determined to keep building on this momentum. Woods, Scott, and Thomas have set a new standard—not just for themselves but for all Australians invested in pushing the boundaries of winter sports success.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/26/2026