Mikaela Shiffrin, the American skiing sensation, is on the cusp of making history with 60 Audi FIS World Cup slalom titles. Despite a successful pre-season, Shiffrin remains cautious.
Shiffrin’s preparations have been “great,” leaving her feeling “excited and energized” for the women’s slalom season opener in Levi, Finland. She has triumphed on this slope a record seven times.
Rivals, including Lena Duerr, Wendy Holdener, and Zrinka Ljutic, seek to dethrone Shiffrin. Duerr, second in last season’s standings, boasts an impressive Levi record.
Wendy Holdener, a two-time Olympic medallist, returns after a 10-month absence due to injury and personal loss. Holdener aims to “fight for the win” and join the top group.
Michelle Gisin, a 30-year-old Swiss all-rounder, seeks another consistent season, racing across disciplines. Her experience and dedication make her a contender.
Levi hosts the first of four women’s World Cup technical races in 16 days. Shiffrin can potentially reach 100 World Cup wins in front of her home crowd in Killington.
Petra Vlhova, Shiffrin’s longtime rival, misses the event due to injury. Shiffrin acknowledges missing their “battles on the slope.”
The stage is set for an intense competition in Levi. Shiffrin’s pursuit of history faces stiff challenges from a talented field, ensuring an exciting start to the women’s slalom season.
