American cross-country skiing star Jessie Diggins has made it clear who she is racing for at the Winter Olympics 2026. While athletes are often seen as representing their country in a traditional sense, Diggins offered a more personal perspective.
She emphasized that carrying the flag is not about endorsing power or politics, but about standing for shared human values, including love, acceptance, compassion, honesty, and respect.
Jessie Diggins Shares What Racing Means to Her Beyond Results
With the Winter Games approaching, the 34-year-old spoke candidly about framing American identity around unity rather than division, distancing herself from hate, violence, and discrimination.
In an Instagram post, she reflected on what representation means to her, writing, “I want to make sure you know who I’m racing for when I get to the start line at the Olympics. I’m racing for an American people who stand for love, for acceptance, for compassion, honesty and respect for others. I do not stand for hate or violence or discrimination.”
The Minnesota-born athlete added, “I get to decide who I’m racing for every single day, and how I want to live up to my values. For everyone out there caring for others, protecting their neighbors and meeting people with love – every single step is for you. YOU are the ones who make me proud to carry the flag, and I hope I can bring you joy over these next few weeks. ❤️🤍💙”
Through her message, Diggins made clear how she views sport as a means of connection rather than simply competition, racing with purpose that extends far beyond results.
Diggins Emphasizes Focus on Mental Health As Olympics Approach
As the Olympics draw closer and with this set to be her final Games, the cross-country skiing champion shared another heartfelt message explaining how she is prioritizing her mental health during this pivotal moment in her career.
Via Instagram, she wrote, “It’s almost go time! I’m excited, you’re excited, everybody’s ready!” She reflected on the years that have led her to this point, stating that she has been “working as hard” as possible in every possible area of life for the last 16 years to be fully prepared for the Olympics.
Diggins explained that an essential part of that preparation has been listening closely to herself, both mentally and emotionally. “Part of that preparation is looking out for my mental health and making sure I’m healthy, happy, and listening to my body and soul when it tells me what I need,” she shared.
As a result, the 2018 Olympic team sprint champion revealed that she will be stepping away from online engagement in the lead-up to the Games. She added, “One of the ways in which I keep myself well is investing my time and energy in the team around me and my family relationships, and spending less time online.” Diggins concluded her message by thanking fans and offering reassurance.
