ROSA KHUTOR, Russia (AFP) - US tyro Ted Ligety proved he was the unbeatable king of the giant slalom on Wednesday, winning Olympic gold in convincing fashion.

The 29-year-old reigning world champion clocked the fastest time of 2min 45.29sec after two runs down the Rosa Khutor, finishing first in front of a surprise duo of Frenchmen.

Steve Missillier, with only one World Cup podium to his name, was second at 0.48sec back, ahead of Alexis Pinturault, who took bronze at 0.64sec off the pace.