Julia Mancuso, who powered to an impressive downhill win in Val d'Isere on Tuesday, said her maiden World Cup victory could not match her Olympic giant slalom title this year.

"Today's victory in the World Cup is a little different than the one at the Olympic Games, just because the Games are so huge," the 22-year-old American told reporters after beating experienced Austrian Renate Goetschl and compatriot Lindsay Kildow.

Mancuso's victory was a surprise as the smiling Athoe City-born skier underwent surgery to correct a long-term hip problem in the off-season.

"I'm just coming back from that and it's been tough but I knew I had a pretty good run, it felt smooth," she said.

"It just seemed like everything lined up perfectly for me. I'm just starting to get the good feelings back all the time."

Mancuso, who had three podium finishes last season including one in Cortina d'Ampezzo's downhill, was delighted to be on the podium with Kildow, who won in the French resort a year ago.

"I'm happy to be on the podium with Lindsey Kildow, you know a couple of my podiums were with her, she's an awesome skier. It's great a to share this victory," she said.

"Being up there for so many times, the victory finally is there."

"It's cool, it's awesome. It's always good to have another American on the podium.

"Last year, I won ahead of Caroline (Lalive) so I guess here is a great place for the Americans."