In 2017, the talent Estelle Alphand was fifth in the Lienz World Cup slalom, after the fastest time in the second race.
She was close to a breakthrough.
In 2018, she broke her ankle in Killington, USA.
Since then, the pursuit of a successful return has been fraught with problems and lost rankings.
When the women's slalom is run in Zagreb this week, Estelle Alphant is not even in place - she is training with the national speed team, right now in Kronplatz, Italy, and is planning for her first super-G, in St Anton, on Sunday.
- I got tired of starting so far back in slalom.
You can not have start number 70 for an entire season.
- In addition, I have had back pain in slalom and it feels better when I run speed.
I am having fun!
The step over to speed is not unnatural.
Dad Luc Alphand won ten downhill races and two super-Gs, the second half of the 90s.
In 1997 he won the overall World Cup, for France.
- But I have actually talked a little with him so much about this.
I made the decision myself.
He can certainly come up with tips, but I do not think he cares so much.
National team manager positive
There will thus be no more slalom this winter, but a giant slalom.
For the Swedish national speed team, Estelle Alphand's investment is welcome.
Last year looked promising, with several World Cup points, but this season both Lisa Hörnbland and Ida Dannewitz are injured.
- That Estelle goes over and drives speed makes her four-legged instead of two-legged, just like Sara Hector.
It will make her better even in giant slalom, says national team manager Lars Melin.
The ladies' super-G on Sunday will be broadcast, on SVT2, starting at 11.25.