In a disappointing turn of events, Lindsey Vonn’s hopes of partnering with Mikaela Shiffrin in the team combined event at the World Ski Championships in Saalbach were dashed when Shiffrin ruled herself out of the competition. The news came as a surprise to many, particularly given the excitement and anticipation surrounding a potential dream team partnership between two of the most dominant forces in women’s skiing.
Shiffrin, who has been working her way back from an abdominal puncture-wound injury sustained in a crash in Killington in November, made her comeback on the piste in Courchevel last week. However, despite her progress, Shiffrin has opted to prioritize her solo events, citing the need to focus on her recovery and preparation for the giant slalom and slalom races.
Vonn, who is making her own return to competition at the World Championships after retiring from the sport, had been enthusiastic about the prospect of teaming up with Shiffrin in the team combined event. The new event, which sees one skier racing the downhill and a teammate racing the slalom, with their combined times counting for their place in the final standings, had promised to be a thrilling spectacle, with Vonn and Shiffrin forming a formidable partnership.
However, Shiffrin’s decision to sit out the team combined event has put an end to those hopes. In a statement posted on social media, Shiffrin explained that she needs to focus on her recovery and preparation for her solo events, and that participating in the team combined event would not be feasible at this time.
“As exciting as it was to return to racing in Courchevel, my team and I are continuing to take it one step at a time as I work to get back to 100%,” Shiffrin said. “That is proving to be no small task — each day so far has come with a new set of challenges. With that said, I need to keep my energy focused on preparing for the giant slalom and slalom races during world championships, and will not be able to participate in the team combined.”
While the news may be disappointing for fans who had been eagerly anticipating a dream team partnership between Vonn and Shiffrin, it is a testament to Shiffrin’s dedication and commitment to her craft. By prioritizing her solo events, Shiffrin is ensuring that she is best positioned to deliver her best performances and compete for medals in the events that matter most to her.
