The defending world champion from Schladming briefly claimed the lead with a run of 1:10.32, 0.12 seconds faster than US champion Lindsay Vonn who went before her, only to see Fenninger overtake her by 0.03 seconds.

The 31-year-old added to her medals haul at major competitions with a near flawless run in tough conditions, which saw the race postponed by 30 minutes and shortened due to a strong wind.

Holding the lead over Vonn throughout the run, Maze crossed the line first to silence the home crowd and set up a thrilling finale ahead of the four remaining top skiers from the World Cup.

But while others floundered, Fenninger set a blazing pace at the top of the course only to see her lead melt away in the final stretch to set up a close finish.

In the end, the lead from the top would prove enough for the 25-year-old Austrian, who is currently second in the World Cup overall standings behind Maze.

"When I crossed the line, there was silence in the stands...and it took a while to understand that I was first. It was a good feeling, because my biggest challenge today was beating Lindsey," Maze told TV Slovenije after the race.

"I managed it with a good run and I'm very happy with this. Of course, there is a slightly bitter after-taste, but in the waning phase of the career you see things differently. The important thing is giving your best in every race."

The medal is Maze's fifth silver at World Championships and seventh medal overall along with two golds. She has also won four Olympic medals, including two golds at the Sochi Games last year.