In a candid, emotional exchange on her podcast “What’s the Point,” alpine skiing superstar Mikaela Shiffrin opened up about the toll of online criticism, admitting that haters still haunt her dreams even as she dominates the sport like never before.
The two-time Olympic medalist welcomed seven-time Olympic gold medalist gymnast Simone Biles as a guest on the episode released January 23, 2026. The hour-long conversation delved into the shared pressures of elite competition, mental health challenges, and the harsh reality of public scrutiny—drawing parallels between Shiffrin’s struggles at the 2022 Beijing Olympics and Biles’ experiences during Tokyo 2020.
Shiffrin, who has shattered records with her ninth slalom Crystal Globe and 108 World Cup wins heading into the Milano Cortina 2026 Games, revealed the lingering impact of negativity: “I have nightmares” about the haters and trolls who relentlessly attack her performance, she shared. The admission highlights how even the most accomplished athletes aren’t immune to the mental weight of criticism, especially after high-profile setbacks like her multiple DNFs in Beijing following her father’s death.
Biles, who has long been an advocate for mental health in sports and previously supported Shiffrin publicly during tough times, offered empathy and solidarity. The duo bonded over understanding the “damned if you do, damned if you don’t” trap of public expectations—where success invites jealousy, and struggles fuel cruelty. Their discussion emphasized resilience, process over outcome, and the importance of tuning out external noise while staying true to personal growth.
The podcast episode has resonated deeply with fans, sparking widespread support and conversations about athlete vulnerability. Shiffrin, who launched “What’s the Point” to foster meaningful dialogues on performance, purpose, and perseverance, used the platform to humanize the journey behind the medals. As she prepares for what could be another golden chapter at the upcoming Winter Olympics, her honesty reminds the world that greatness often comes with unseen battles.
This raw moment underscores why Shiffrin remains one of the most relatable icons in sports—proving that strength isn’t just about winning races, but about facing fears, haters included, head-on. The full episode is available now, and the skiing and gymnastics communities are rallying behind her louder than ever. 💪❤️
