As the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina draw closer, alpine skiing superstar Mikaela Shiffrin is candidly addressing the nerves that accompany her pursuit of Olympic glory. The double Olympic champion, who has dominated the sport with a record-breaking 97 World Cup victories, recently admitted to feeling “jitters” as she prepares for her fourth Olympic appearance, set for February 6–22, 2026, in Italy’s storied alpine region.
“Even after all these years, I still get those jitters,” Shiffrin shared in a recent interview. “It’s part of what makes the Olympics so special—it’s this incredible mix of excitement and pressure.” The 30-year-old American, who claimed gold in slalom at Sochi 2014 and giant slalom at PyeongChang 2018, is no stranger to the Olympic stage. Yet, she acknowledges that the unique intensity of the Games continues to challenge her, particularly after her unexpected struggles at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, where she failed to medal in her individual events.
Shiffrin’s Beijing experience, marked by three Did Not Finishes (DNFs) in five races, left a lasting impact. “Beijing was tough, no question,” she reflected. “But it’s taught me to embrace the nerves, to lean into them rather than fight them.” Determined not to let that chapter define her Olympic legacy, Shiffrin is approaching Milano-Cortina with a blend of resilience and renewed focus, aiming to compete in slalom, giant slalom, and possibly additional disciplines in Cortina d’Ampezzo, a venue renowned for its rich skiing heritage.
Since Beijing, Shiffrin has continued to rewrite the record books, surpassing Ingemar Stenmark’s all-time World Cup win record in 2023 and solidifying her status as one of alpine skiing’s all-time greats. Her preparation for 2026 has been meticulous, combining rigorous physical training with mental conditioning to manage the high-stakes Olympic environment. “The jitters are a sign I care deeply,” she said. “I’m working to channel that energy into my skiing.”
Shiffrin’s openness about her nerves underscores her commitment to authenticity, resonating with fans and highlighting the mental demands of elite competition. She has been a vocal advocate for mental health in sports, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and perspective. “The Olympics are a moment in time, but they don’t define who you are,” she noted. “I want to ski with freedom and joy, whatever the outcome.”
The Milano-Cortina Olympics offer Shiffrin a chance to add to her three Olympic medals while competing in a region that celebrates alpine skiing’s legacy. With her technical prowess and mental resilience, she remains a favorite to contend for podiums in multiple events. As she navigates the familiar butterflies of Olympic competition, Shiffrin is focused on embracing the moment. “Those jitters? They’re a reminder I’m exactly where I want to be,” she said with a smile. “I’m ready to race.”
As the countdown to 2026 continues, Shiffrin’s blend of vulnerability and determination makes her a compelling figure to watch, both on and off the slopes. For the skiing phenom, the Milano-Cortina Olympics represent not just a shot at redemption, but an opportunity to celebrate the sport she loves on the world’s grandest stage.
