Mikaela Shiffrin Shares A Heartfelt Message. Aleksander Kilde’s Update: “Why I Can’t Let Go?”

Mikaela Shiffrin was shining. Not from the flash of gold medals or the excitement of competition, but from something calmer and more personal. We’re discussing a moment with Aleksander Kilde. Mikaela Shiffrin and Aleksander Aamodt Kilde announced their relationship in May 2021, with Kilde posting, “If you know, you know…and now you know.” Since then, their friendship has been defined not by spectacular gestures, but by moments of loyalty during injury and recuperation.

Airports are typically recognizable and busy checkpoints between training camps and race days. But this time, her steps felt different, more measured and reflective. She strode purposefully through the terminal, capturing the small details along the way: the contour of a luggage trolley, the passing glimmer of airport businesses. “I’m a sucker for airport stores,” she told me, “but we didn’t have time for that rn.” This was not a skiing trip day. It was something much more profound.

It began in the backseat of a car, with her face mostly obscured by a black mask. “Finally going to see my mann,” she posted on Instagram as she documented her journey. Her face was gentle, even through the printed words. She sat in a “little private calling cubicle” at the airport to FaceTime Aleksander Aamodt Kilde, who was smiling on television. However, this reunion was not only emotional; it was also cautious. “Wearing a mask to limit the chances of bringing sickness to Aleks with his infection risk,” she said, referring to his lengthy rehabilitation from a horrific crash and accompanying infection earlier this year. Every frame of her journey held significance. Love in this context seems to be prudence, patience, and presence. Then came the last leg.

Onboard the plane: “OMG, so close.” Upon arrival: “The last time we saw each other was in March.” “Travelling light,” she said as she left with her luggage. Finally, she spotted him. “I see him.” Kilde, standing just ahead, raised his phone and began photographing her smile, her stroll, and the moment they’d both been waiting three months for. “It’s not easy being away from each other so often and for so long,” she said. The last time @akilde and I were together was in March, following the World Cup Final. For the time being, this is a necessary component of our work. Never take for granted the time we spend together!🫶”

Their tale has always been based on that quiet constancy. From acquaintance in 2014 to a relationship in 2021 to their engagement in April 2024, they’ve never needed to make any noise. It’s just presence. I just love how he waits and then shows up. But what got them so close? It wasn’t only about time; it was also about getting through the most difficult times. Remember last year? They not only made it through, but they did so together.

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Mikaela Shiffrin and Aleksander Kilde nursed each other through the most difficult year. Kilde was involved in a horrific crash in Wengen in January 2024, tearing ligaments, injuring nerves, and requiring emergency surgery. Mikaela flew to Switzerland to support him through a life-threatening infection and weeks of IV antibiotics. She assisted with meals and morale. He later described the encounter as “a life-or-death” battle. Despite his suffering and surgery, she never left his side. “I wouldn’t be standing here if it weren’t for her,” Kilde remarked later.

Just months later, the roles were flipped. Mikaela crashed in Killington in November 2024, leaving her with a major puncture wound in her abdomen that required surgery. “It felt like I was stabbed,” she added, and the rehabilitation was terrible, “even coughing or laughing hurt.” Kilde, who was still recovering, provided emotional support by flying in to Colorado to be near her and checking in on a regular basis. “My main reason for coming is Mikaela,” he explained during her rehabilitation. She had both physical agony and PTSD, stating, “I had irrational fears… the trauma wasn’t just physical.” Kilde guided her through it with a calm demeanor and consistent assurance.

They both describe the last year as “total survival mode,” yet it was during the most difficult months that their connection grew into something stronger. Whether Mikaela sat quietly by Kilde’s bedside during his lowest point or he showed up unexpectedly during her most vulnerable moments, the support has been mutual, instinctive, and honest. As they prepare for the 2026 Olympics, where they will often compete six hours apart, they rely on emotional check-ins and virtual rituals. As Mikaela once said, “He’s the only person who truly gets it.” In the face of physical agony, mental health issues, and elite pressure, their love has not only survived, but has grown into their greatest strength.