Alpine skiing icon Mikaela Shiffrin is entering her fourth Olympic Winter Games, the Milano Cortina 2026, riding high after another milestone achievement. On January 25, the American superstar claimed her ninth slalom World Cup Crystal Globe with a commanding victory in Špindlerův Mlýn, Czech Republic. This triumph marked her 108th career World Cup win, further cementing her status as one of the most decorated athletes in the sport.
Despite the string of successes, Shiffrin opened up during a Team USA teleconference on January 26 about the significant physical and mental challenges she has faced on the road to the Olympics. “My body is maxed out every single day,” she shared. “It’s been an incredible process—very painful, literally and metaphorically.”
She reflected on a tough setback from the previous season, including a serious crash at Killington that left her with a unusual abdominal puncture wound. The injury disrupted her training, particularly in giant slalom, where she struggled to complete runs. “Your body knows when it’s too much,” Shiffrin explained, noting how the experience forced her to reassess her limits and recovery strategies.
This has led to a more mindful approach to preparation. Shiffrin emphasized the non-linear nature of overcoming setbacks: “These struggles don’t work linearly… You gotta listen to yourself, and you have to communicate with the people who are around you… Time helps, exposure helps.” Rather than avoiding fears, she advocates confronting them gradually. Her efforts have shown results, including a return to the giant slalom World Cup podium on January 24—the first in two seasons.
With the Olympics approaching, Shiffrin is prioritizing mental balance and enjoyment over rigid expectations. “This Olympics, I’m coming in with an open mind,” she said. “Things won’t go according to plan – and that’s okay.” She highlighted the importance of savoring peaceful and joyful moments during the Games, a perspective she has carried through each of her previous Olympic appearances.
Shiffrin is set to compete in the women’s alpine events in Cortina d’Ampezzo, including giant slalom, slalom, and the team combined. As she prepares for what could be another historic chapter, her focus remains on resilience, self-awareness, and finding joy amid the intensity of elite competition.
