Mikaela Shiffrin Steadily Overcomes PTSD in Giant Slalom, Shifts Focus to Slalom at World Cup Finals

Mikaela Shiffrin, one of alpine skiing’s most decorated athletes, continues her remarkable journey of resilience as she steadily recovers from the psychological aftermath of a devastating crash earlier this season. The American skier, who suffered a high-speed fall during a giant slalom race in January, has since been candid about the lingering effects of post-traumatic stress and the challenges of returning to competition in the discipline.

Shiffrin, 29, has made incremental progress in overcoming her PTSD, especially in the giant slalom—a discipline she once dominated with fluid turns and unmatched precision. After taking time to physically recover and mentally regroup, she returned to the World Cup circuit with cautious optimism, prioritizing her mental well-being alongside performance goals.

“It’s not just about skiing fast again,” Shiffrin said in a recent interview. “It’s about regaining trust in my body, my instincts, and the mountain. Every run is a step forward.”

Though she has shown improvement in recent races, Shiffrin and her coaching team have decided to shift her focus toward the slalom at the upcoming World Cup finals. The slalom, where Shiffrin has claimed numerous titles and remains a dominant force, offers a more familiar and controlled environment—one where she feels more confident as she continues her psychological recovery.

“I feel more comfortable on the slalom course right now,” she admitted. “It gives me a sense of control that I’m still working to rebuild in GS. For the finals, it makes sense to focus where I’m strongest—both mentally and physically.”

Shiffrin’s decision has been met with support from fans and fellow athletes alike, many of whom have praised her openness in discussing mental health and the emotional toll of elite competition. Her journey reflects a broader shift in the world of sports, where mental resilience is increasingly recognized as critical to performance and long-term success.

As she prepares for the slalom finale, Shiffrin remains one of the top contenders, not just for the podium, but as a symbol of perseverance and mental strength. Her story continues to inspire, showing that even champions face setbacks—but it’s the courage to rise again that truly defines greatness.