Sports fans are doing a serious double take after discovering which trailblazers just landed spots on TIME’s inaugural 100 Most Influential People in Sports list.
In a major win for winter sports, four powerhouse athletes from U.S. Ski & Snowboard — Mikaela Shiffrin, Lindsey Vonn, Jessie Diggins, and Oksana Masters — have been recognized among the world’s most impactful figures in athletics. The list, which also features global icons like LeBron James, Lionel Messi, and Caitlin Clark, highlights those shaping the sports landscape both on and off the field.
From record-shattering Olympic performances to groundbreaking cultural influence, these women have propelled skiing and snowboarding far beyond the slopes — and the internet is buzzing.
Mikaela Shiffrin: The Greatest of All Time
Already a TIME 100 honoree in 2023, alpine superstar Shiffrin cemented her legacy at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics with another gold in slalom — her fourth Olympic medal overall. She dominated by a massive 1.5-second margin, the largest in decades. With 110 World Cup wins, 15 World Championship medals, and countless records under her belt, she’s widely regarded as the most successful alpine skier ever.
“It’s an incredible honor to be recognized by TIME… To be honest, recognition like this always feels a little surreal,” Shiffrin shared on Instagram.
Lindsey Vonn: The Ultimate Comeback Queen
At 41, Vonn delivered one of sports’ most inspiring stories. Returning from retirement, she powered through injuries, including a torn ACL just before the Olympics, embodying relentless determination. Her influence stretches well beyond results — it’s about showing up and redefining what’s possible.c38983
Jessie Diggins: Cross-Country Pioneer
The most decorated U.S. cross-country skier in history retired after an epic career featuring Olympic gold, multiple World Cup titles, and 90+ podiums. Diggins popularized the sport, championed mental health awareness, and proved there’s more to competition than just winning.
“So very honored and humbled to be listed as a leader… I have had the gift of so many amazing role models,” she said.
Oksana Masters: Paralympic Legend and Inspiration
The most decorated Paralympic athlete of all time, Masters has amassed 24 medals across multiple sports and Games. Born in Ukraine with birth defects linked to Chernobyl and later adopted, her journey from adversity to dominance in skiing, cycling, and more is pure resilience.
“Being recognized by TIME… is an incredible honor – not just because of the company I’m standing alongside,” Masters posted.
This recognition marks one of the biggest moments for U.S. winter sports in recent memory, with fans flooding social media to celebrate the quartet’s well-deserved spotlight. All four athletes are women, further underscoring their role in elevating the visibility and impact of female athletes across disciplines.
TIME will host its first-ever TIME100 Sports Gala on July 16 in New York City to honor the full list.
These athletes aren’t just dominating their sports — they’re inspiring the next generation and proving that winter sports stars belong at the center of the global conversation. Who’s ready for more history on the snow?
