Two-time Olympic skiing champion Mikaela Shiffrin delivered a touching surprise video tribute to Slovenian climbing sensation Janja Garnbret during a gala celebrating Garnbret’s tenure as ambassador for a prominent sports philanthropy program.
The event marked the handover of the “sports godfatherhood” initiative—a fundraising effort that supports young athletes and para-athletes—from Garnbret to Slovenian volleyball star Tine Urnaut. Under Garnbret’s leadership, the program raised more than €300,000 for underprivileged children in sport.
In her heartfelt message, Shiffrin praised Garnbret’s extraordinary achievements both on and off the climbing wall. “Hi Janja, it’s Mikaela,” the American skier began. “I just wanted to wish you the biggest congratulations for your entire career—countless World Championships, 10 I think, two Olympic gold medals.”
Shiffrin went on to highlight Garnbret’s off-wall impact: “It’s incredible what you have achieved on the wall and also equally off the wall. Such commitment to raise funds for youth in sports and so many things beyond that.”
Garnbret, widely regarded as one of the most decorated competition climbers in history, added two more gold medals at the 2025 IFSC Climbing World Championships in Seoul, further cementing her dominance in the sport.
The unexpected cross-sport gesture underscores a growing connection between elite female athletes who share not only competitive excellence but also a dedication to nurturing the next generation of talent through charitable work.
