Bode Miller became the first American skier to claim the men's downhill gold medal at the world championships in Bormio, Italy on Saturday.

Miller added the downhill gold to the super-G crown he won last weekend, finishing in 1:56.22 minutes. Countryman Daron Rahlves was second, 0.44 seconds back with former world champion Michael Walchhofer of Austria third, 0.87 behind the winner.

Miller still has a chance for three more medals - in the giant slalom, slalom and new team event that will conclude the championships on February 13.

The American leads the overall World Cup standings. Miller started his career as a slalom and giant slalom specialist. He reached the level of the top speed skiers this season, winning two World Cup downhill events to start the season.