In a heartfelt revelation that has sent shockwaves through the skiing world, Norwegian speed specialist Aleksander Aamodt Kilde has admitted he seriously considered retiring after his devastating crash in Wengen nearly two years ago. What ultimately dragged him back to the slopes? The unwavering love and support of his fiancée, American skiing legend Mikaela Shiffrin.
The 33-year-old Norwegian, a former overall World Cup champion and Olympic medalist, suffered life-altering injuries in a horrific January 2024 crash during the Lauberhorn downhill in Wengen, Switzerland. The accident left him with severe damage to his shoulder and calf, requiring multiple surgeries and a battle against a serious infection that brought him dangerously close to sepsis.
In recent interviews ahead of the Val Gardena races, Kilde opened up about the dark moments during his recovery. “Considering my successes before the crash, it would have been an easy decision to retire,” he confessed. The prolonged absence took a toll not just physically, but mentally, leaving him questioning whether a return was worth the risk.
Yet, one constant force kept him fighting: Mikaela Shiffrin. “Her support has been insane,” Kilde said emotionally. “She has supported me from day one – not only personally, but also as an athlete. The support I’ve gotten from her has been insane. I love her.” The couple, engaged since 2024, have been each other’s rock through injuries and triumphs.
Their bond was on full display during Kilde’s emotional comeback at Copper Mountain on November 27, 2025 – after 685 days away from competition. Shiffrin stood anxiously at the finish line, tears streaming down her face as she cheered him on. When he crossed safely, finishing 24th in the super-G, she rushed into his arms for a tearful embrace that melted hearts worldwide.
“It was very special that I was able to be there for his comeback. I’m very proud of him,” Shiffrin shared afterward.
Since that triumphant return, Kilde has raced in Beaver Creek and Val Gardena, steadily rebuilding his form while focusing on downhill and super-G events. Though his shoulder will never fully heal, his passion – reignited by missing the thrill of speed and the mountains – combined with Shiffrin’s encouragement, propelled him forward.
“We’ve been a rock for each other,” Kilde reflected in a recent Olympics.com interview, highlighting how their shared experiences as elite athletes have deepened their connection.
As the 2025-26 season heats up, skiing’s ultimate power couple continues to inspire. Kilde’s confession underscores a truth many athletes face: sometimes, love is the greatest motivator of all. Fans are buzzing – will this fairytale story lead to podiums, or even Olympic glory in 2026? One thing’s certain: with Shiffrin by his side, Kilde is unstoppable.
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