The long-awaited super-G clash between American skiing legends Lindsey Vonn and Mikaela Shiffrin—their first head-to-head since 2019—has spotlighted a reportedly strained relationship, with a top expert claiming the duo “don’t have it so good together.”
Swiss broadcaster SRF analyst and former World Cup star Tina Weirather didn’t hold back, stating: “The reality is that each wants to win—and doesn’t want the other to win.” Weirather highlighted lingering tension from the 2025 World Championships, where Vonn messaged Shiffrin about pairing for the team event, only for Shiffrin to allegedly not reply, team up with Breezy Johnson instead, and claim gold—a move that “didn’t necessarily improve the relationship.”
With a combined 187 World Cup victories (Shiffrin 104, Vonn 83), the two are the most successful female skiers ever, but professional rivalry has overshadowed any close bond. Past incidents, including communication mishaps and public comments on team dynamics, have fueled speculation of distance dating back years.
Sunday’s race on the Corviglia piste saw Vonn, fresh off a downhill win and second place earlier in the weekend, as the speed favorite at 41. Shiffrin, returning to super-G after nearly two years with bib 31, kept expectations modest.
As the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics approach, hopes linger that shared U.S. team goals could mend fences—a dream pairing of experience and dominance. For now, though, the vibe remains decidedly frosty on the slopes.
