Mikaela Shiffrin, still seeking form, suffers in her comeback to giant slalom races

Mikaela Shiffrin, an American Alpine skiing standout, failed not qualify for the second run of Saturday’s World Cup giant slalom event in Sestriere, Italy. She finished 33rd in the first run while recovering from an injury that kept her out of competition for two months.

Shiffrin was 2.50 seconds behind New Zealand’s Alice Robinson. Only the top 30 skiers make it to the second run.

After a November collision that resulted in a puncture hole in her belly, she competed in giant slalom for the second consecutive day. She qualified for the second run on Friday, finishing 25th.

Federica Brignone, an Italian star, overcame an illness to win both races in front of her home supporters. After finishing fourth in Saturday’s first race, she achieved the fastest time in the second, 2:08.81. Switzerland’s Lara Gut-Behrami (0.77 seconds behind) and Robinson (0.79) completed the top three.

Brignone finished in 2:12.69 seconds on Friday, moving up from second place after the first run to beat Robinson by 0.40 seconds and return the pair to the top of the giant slalom podium after finishing 1-2 at last week’s world championships. Norway’s Thea Louise Stjernesund finished third, 1.57 back.

Brignone, a silver medallist in giant slalom at the 2022 Olympics, now has 34 career World Cup victories, including 16 in giant slalom. She leads the overall World Cup rankings with seven victories this season.

Federica Brignone celebrates after winning the giant slalom competition in Sestriere, Italy, for the second day in a row. (Marco Bertorello/AFP via Getty Images)

American On Friday, Paula Moltzan, the bronze medallist from Worlds, finished sixth as the highest American. She finished eighth on Saturday, one position below fellow American A.J. Hurt, who was 12th on Friday.

Nina O’Brien finished eighth on Friday, giving the United States team a top-10 result.

On Friday, Shiffrin finished 18th after the first run, 2.89 seconds behind leader Robinson, in 1:08.93. She finished the second run in 1:08.41, the second-slowest of the 28 skiers who crossed the finish line. Overall, she was 4.65 seconds behind Brignone.

The 29-year-old Shiffrin, a two-time Olympic gold medallist and eight-time world champion, failed to qualify for the second run in either giant slalom or slalom on Saturday, the first time since October 2012. But simply being back in the field for this event was a memorable experience for her. Shiffrin revealed her decision to forgo the giant slalom at the world championships 11 days ago, citing “mental obstacles” while recovering from a mishap in Killington, Vermont, on Nov. 30.

She confessed Thursday that she is still not totally recovered, but she felt good enough to participate in Sestriere.

“I do not yet feel entirely myself,” she posted on social media. “But I do feel enough of myself to be here…” And that’s enough for now.”

Shiffrin won the gold medal in the team combined event alongside U.S. colleague Breezy Johnson after withdrawing from the giant slalom at Worlds. She finished third in the slalom leg. In her hallmark event, the slalom, she finished sixth, only 0.05 seconds away from a record-breaking medal.

A slalom event is scheduled for Sunday at Sestriere.

Friday’s event was Shiffrin’s first giant slalom since that day in Killington, when she was gunning for her 100th career World Cup victory on a familiar hill at Burke Mountain Academy. However, the collision held her out of racing until late January.

On Jan. 30, she finished 10th in a slalom competition at Courchevel, France, before moving on to Worlds.

Prior to the injury, Shiffrin had a fantastic start to the season. In November, she won the first two slalom events in Levi, Finland, and Gurgl, Austria, bringing her total to 99 World Cup victories and making a celebration on home turf seem probable.

Then, in Killington, she set the fastest time in the first run of the giant slalom, seeming poised to break the 100-second barrier in Alpine skiing, before losing control on the second run, colliding with the powder, flipping, and sliding into the safety netting. She missed the next day’s slalom competition before announcing her extended absence.

As Shiffrin returned and sought history on the World Cup tour and at the World Championships, where she is tied for the all-time lead in medals won, she warned that recovering to peak form would take time.

“It’s been eight weeks since I had surgery,” she stated after the world championship slalom. “It’s been six weeks since I was lying in bed with a drainage tube poking out of me. Perspective is key. “It takes time.”

The women’s World Cup calendar includes two more slalom weekends: Are, Sweden, on March 8-9, and Sun Valley, Idaho, at the World Cup Finals on March 22-27.

(Photo of Mikaela Shiffrin during Saturday’s giant slalom: Marco Bertorello / AFP via Getty Images)

Zack Pierce is the national managing editor of The Athletic. Previously, he was the managing editor for The Athletic’s Minnesota coverage. Following a brief time at ESPN.com, he worked in several editorial roles for FoxSports.com for more than ten years. He is a Minnesota native who co-founded the Trent Tucker Fan Club and refused to contact with society for several hours following the 1998 NFC Championship Game.

Mikaela Shiffrin’s fiance Aleksander Kilde offers a lovely peek of the skier as they reconnect after the Alpine skiing season

Mikaela Shiffrin and Aleksander Kilde are a power couple in the skiing world, and they just reconnected following the American’s outstanding success in the 2024-25 Alpine season. Kilde is now out of action while he recovers from his Wengen crash.

Shiffrin has made an astonishing return from her horrific fall in Killington in November 2024, which left her with a puncture wound. She returned to the slopes in late January 2025, and after a few non-podium finishes, she won her record 100th World Cup title in Sestriere, Italy.

The American finished the season with 101 victories, the last of which occurred at Sun Valley, Idaho. She won the gold medal in 1:45.92, beating out Lena Durr. Days after the marathon, she reconnected with her fiancé, Kilde, who shared a photo of it on his Instagram account. story.

He shared a photo of Mikaela Shiffrin wearing sunglasses in front of a lovely landscape. He included a caption that read:

“❤️❤️”

Alexander Kilde’s Instagram story.

Kilde is presently rehabilitating from a crash that occurred in January 2024 while racing downhill in Wengen, Switzerland. He had a dislocated shoulder, two ruptured ligaments, and a major laceration on his leg, necessitating emergency surgery due to nerve damage. He had additional operation for his injured shoulder in February 2025.

Mikaela Shiffrin sent a poignant letter to her fiancé, Aleksander Kilde, after his surgery.

American skier Shiffrin (Source: Getty)

Mikaela Shiffrin recently spoke with BR24 and delivered a heartfelt message for her fiancé, Alexander Kilde, who had shoulder surgery. The skier said that she hadn’t embraced him in a year since he was wounded and couldn’t use his arm.

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She conveyed her pleasure about seeing him and discussed the importance of health.

“Ultimately, our health and happiness are the most essential things. It’s easy to forget when you’re in the thick of a competition and everyone wants to win. But, in the end, just being able to use your arm again is incredibly remarkable. Mikaela Shiffrin stated, “I’m looking forward to giving him a proper hug again, because it’s been more than a year since we could do so.”

Mikaela Shiffrin and Aleksander Kilde began dating in 2021 and announced their engagement last year in April. The Norwegian skier congratulated Shiffrin on her 100th World Cup win with a heartfelt social media post.

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Mikaela Shiffrin amps up the glamour with a black top and brown skirt

Mikaela Shiffrin, a three-time Olympic medallist, recently shared a peek of her exquisite dress on Instagram. The famous alpine skier just achieved a career milestone by winning her 101st slalom race at the 2024-25 FIS Alpine World Cup Finals in Sun Valley, Idaho.

Mikaela Shiffrin, a 15-time World Championship medallist, recently uploaded an Instagram image that highlighted her stunning appearance. The world-class skier displayed her fashion in a black top and brown skirt and conveyed her opinions in the article, writing:

“Made it 24 hours without putting on a race suit😮‍💨”

Mikaela Shiffrin sealed her place in alpine skiing history by winning her 100th World Cup slalom race in Sestriere, Italy. She also earned a gold medal alongside prominent skier Breezy Johnson in the team combined event at the 2025 World Alpine Ski Championships in Saalbach, Austria.

The legendary skier made a remarkable return following a serious incident in Killington in November 2024. She had a severe abdominal puncture wound and substantial muscular injuries as a result of the collision.
She had PTSD as a result of her accident. She resumed skiing after a two-month rehabilitation period. In addition to her Olympic and World Championship achievements, she has won 11 discipline titles and five Crystal Globes.

Mikaela Shiffrin discusses her thoughts about collaborating with Share Winter Foundation

Mikaela Shiffrin at the Audi FIS Ski World Cup Sestriere 2025 (Source: Getty)

Mikaela Shiffrin is a legendary alpine skier who has received various awards during her career. In conjunction with the Share Winter Foundation, she hopes to raise $100,000 for child ski and snowboard programs.

In celebration of her 100th World Cup victory, the skier aims to make skiing accessible to the next generation. According to sharewinterfoundation.org, she stated:

“I view this 100-victory discourse as an opportunity to bring more attention, and perhaps, more enthusiasm, to the sport. I feel like winning 100 is about me. It’s about my career and all I’ve done to get there. It’s fantastic, of course, but I’d like to shift the focus to something greater than me.”

She continued:

“Helping Share Winter bring more children to the mountain is really significant. It’s a lot bigger than me winning 100 races. This will make the 100th victory one of the most significant for me.”

Shiffrin is the youngest woman in US history to win a World Cup alpine skiing championship. She is also the youngest athlete in history, male or female, to win an Olympic gold medal in slalom.

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Mikaela Shiffrin pens an emotional message for fans as the skiing community embraces the American legend

“A rollercoaster-thrill-of-a-season indeed.” Mikaela Shiffrin won her 101st World Cup at Sun Valley, marking the end of another memorable story. The season was nothing short of extraordinary—a comeback narrative that combined tenacity and record-breaking victories. She recovered from a horrific injury in late 2024.

And now she has returned to the slopes with the same perseverance that has defined her career, winning her 101st World Cup title in Sun Valley. With each race, she asserted her supremacy. She demonstrated that even failures could not deter her quest of excellence. Even at her height, she never forgets her supporters. Indeed, she turned to Instagram to express her deep appreciation to her admirers.

After Mikaela Shiffrin ended another wonderful chapter at Sun Valley, she remarked, “You made this finale so special, Sun Valley”. This was a celebration of the sport, its supporters, and those who make it possible.

“Thank you to all of the fans, organisers, and course workers for bringing so much energy and enthusiasm to the day,” she said, acknowledging the passion that drives the slopes. With each turn and success, the season’s enthusiasm peaked. What better way to finish things off?

Mikaela Shiffrin, who battled grave injury and PTSD, pens down her feelings after a successful ski season.

For Shiffrin, this was more than simply another race; it was an opportunity to reflect on tenacity and collaboration. “I’m grateful that my own journey led me to be able to cap off the season with that race, and to share it with a team who has worked their tails off in order to make it possible,” she remarked, noting the effort behind the scenes. This season pushed limitations while also revealing the depths of resiliency.

Of course, the podium was impressive, and Shiffrin made sure to congratulate her other rivals. Last but not least, congratulations to @lenaduerr and @andrejaslokar for finishing on the podium, as well as @zrinkaljutic and @atomicski for winning the well-deserved slalom globe. “That was so cool to witness, Zrinka,” she added, praising those who created history alongside her.

As the snow sets on an incredible season, one thing is certain: Shifrin’s story is far from done. Her admirers are also expressing their love and support for their favourite diva.

What are your thoughts on:

After 101 victories, what else can Mikaela Shiffrin do to cement her legacy?

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Fans express their affection and well-wishes for Shiffrin’s impressive recovery.

She ended her season in dramatic fashion, winning the 101st World Cup in Sun Valley and establishing her place as a skiing hero. Fans praised her performance, with one saying, “Absolutely remarkable!!” A spectacular performance!!” Another expressed the joy, tweeting, “What a race, so happy for the season finale, so proud of you.” The audience’ unbridled joy implies a demonstration of ability and creativity that far beyond expectations. After overcome a catastrophic injury, her heroic finish demonstrated her perseverance. What challenges will she face next?

For many, this triumph seemed like the ideal end to an incredible season. “I never imagined the season would finish like this after that injury! A admirer praised her astonishing turnaround, writing, “You’re incredible!” Shiffrin’s ability to overcome hardship and still dominate the slopes astounded supporters. With her momentum rising, how will she set the tone for the upcoming season?

Beyond simply another victory, this was definitely a moment of national pride, as illustrated by one fan’s exclamation: “You rocked and made us all so proud and pleased! USA!”. The phrase “You are always amazing!!” adds to the chorus of appreciation, highlighting the constant talent and high-level performance that has led to this accomplishment. Shiffrin’s successes continue to motivate a new generation of skiers and admirers. As the season concludes on a high note, all eyes are on what comes next—can she extend her legacy even further?

Mikaela Shiffrin: The Queen of Alpine Skiing and Her Unstoppable Legacy

Introduction

Mikaela Shiffrin is one of the most dominant figures in alpine skiing history. With an unparalleled record in slalom and giant slalom, she has shattered multiple records, proving her excellence on the slopes time and time again. From a young prodigy to a living legend, Shiffrin has not only redefined skiing but has also inspired a new generation of athletes. This article delves into her life, career, achievements, struggles, and impact on the sport.

Early Life and Background

Mikaela Pauline Shiffrin was born on March 13, 1995, in Vail, Colorado, USA. She was introduced to skiing at a very young age, following in the footsteps of her parents, Jeff and Eileen Shiffrin, both of whom were ski racers. Her early years were spent skiing in the Rocky Mountains, where she honed her technique and developed a natural flair for the sport.

Shiffrin’s talent was evident from an early age, and she quickly progressed through the ranks of youth competitions. She attended Burke Mountain Academy in Vermont, a prestigious ski racing school that shaped her competitive spirit and provided a structured environment to refine her skills.

Breakthrough in Alpine Skiing

Shiffrin made her World Cup debut at just 15 years old in 2011, and within a year, she claimed her first World Cup victory in 2012 at the age of 17. This victory marked the beginning of a historic career that would see her become the most decorated female alpine skier of all time.

Her technical prowess in slalom and giant slalom became evident as she won the World Cup slalom title for the first time in 2013. At the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics, she became the youngest slalom Olympic champion at just 18 years old. This achievement catapulted her into international stardom.

Record-Breaking Career

Mikaela Shiffrin’s career is filled with incredible records and accomplishments. She has dominated the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup, winning numerous titles in slalom, giant slalom, super-G, and even downhill. Some of her most notable records include:

• Most World Cup Slalom Wins: Shiffrin surpassed the previous record, making her the greatest female slalom skier in history.
• Most World Cup Wins by an American Skier: She eclipsed legends like Lindsey Vonn and Bode Miller in total World Cup wins.
• Youngest Skier to Reach 50 World Cup Wins: Shiffrin achieved this feat at the age of 23, showcasing her consistency and dominance.
• Multiple Overall World Cup Titles: She has claimed several Overall World Cup titles, proving her versatility across different disciplines.
• Olympic and World Championship Medals: Shiffrin has won multiple Olympic and World Championship medals, further solidifying her legacy.

Olympic and World Championship Success

Mikaela Shiffrin’s Olympic journey has been nothing short of remarkable. She has competed in multiple Winter Olympics, winning gold in slalom (2014), giant slalom (2018), and several other medals across various disciplines. Her ability to perform under pressure on the biggest stage has made her one of the most celebrated Olympians in alpine skiing.

At the FIS Alpine World Ski Championships, Shiffrin has secured numerous medals, often outperforming her competitors by significant margins. Her technical precision and mental toughness have made her a formidable force in both slalom and giant slalom events.

Challenges and Comebacks

Despite her dominance, Shiffrin’s journey has not been without challenges. The sudden passing of her father, Jeff Shiffrin, in 2020 was a devastating personal loss that temporarily sidelined her from the sport. Overcoming grief, she made a remarkable comeback, proving her resilience and dedication.

Injuries and the demanding nature of the sport have also tested her physical and mental endurance. Yet, each setback has only fueled her determination to return stronger. Her ability to bounce back from adversity has made her an inspiration to many athletes around the world.

Influence on the Sport and Legacy

Mikaela Shiffrin’s impact on alpine skiing extends beyond records and medals. She has inspired countless young athletes to pursue skiing, emphasizing hard work, discipline, and mental strength. Her technical mastery and innovative approach to training have set new standards in the sport.

She has also been an advocate for gender equality in sports, using her platform to promote fairness and opportunity for female athletes. Her commitment to excellence and sportsmanship has made her a role model for aspiring skiers and sports enthusiasts alike.

Training and Work Ethic

Shiffrin’s success can be attributed to her rigorous training regimen and relentless work ethic. She follows a meticulously designed program that includes on-snow training, strength and conditioning, and mental preparation. Her emphasis on perfecting technique rather than just relying on speed has been a key factor in her consistent performances.

Her training philosophy revolves around repetition and precision. By focusing on refining every aspect of her skiing, she has been able to maintain dominance in an ever-evolving sport.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond skiing, Shiffrin is known for her humility and down-to-earth personality. She enjoys playing the guitar, spending time with family, and engaging with fans on social media. Her ability to balance a high-profile career with personal interests has made her one of the most relatable sports icons.

She has also partnered with various brands and organizations, using her influence to promote causes close to her heart, including mental health awareness and environmental sustainability.

Future Prospects

As Mikaela Shiffrin continues her career, the question remains: How far can she go? With her current trajectory, she is likely to break even more records and set new benchmarks in alpine skiing. Fans and analysts predict that she could become the most decorated skier in history, surpassing all previous milestones.

Her focus on longevity and adaptability will play a crucial role in determining how many more years she competes at the highest level. Regardless of what the future holds, Shiffrin’s legacy is already cemented as one of the greatest athletes in winter sports history.

Conclusion

Mikaela Shiffrin’s journey from a young skiing prodigy to an alpine skiing legend is a story of passion, dedication, and resilience. Her unparalleled achievements, combined with her impact on the sport, make her a true icon. As she continues to push boundaries and inspire generations, her name will forever be etched in the history of alpine skiing.

With every race, Mikaela Shiffrin not only competes against her rivals but also against history itself. Whether she is carving through slalom gates or speeding down a downhill course, one thing is certain—she is a force to be reckoned with, and her legacy will continue to inspire for years to come.