Fresh off another triumphant run at the women’s slalom in Špindlerův Mlýn, Czechia, American alpine ski sensation Mikaela Shiffrin shared her reflections as the Milan Winter Olympics draw near. Widely celebrated as one of the sport’s all-time greats, Shiffrin is eager to chase more Olympic glory and add to her collection of three medals when she returns for her fourth Games this February.
With seven slalom victories and a string of podium finishes in the giant slalom, Shiffrin has set herself up as a formidable contender heading into the Games.
Mikaela Shiffrin on Competing in Milan
In Špindlerův Mlýn, Czechia, Shiffrin notched her astonishing 108th World Cup win and claimed her ninth slalom Crystal Globe. She dominated the course, clocking the fastest times in both runs and finishing well ahead of her rivals: 1.67 seconds clear of Switzerland’s Camille Rast and 2.18 seconds ahead of Germany’s Emma Aicher.
In an interview after the race, Shiffrin was asked about her performance and how she feels going into the Olympics with such a strong season behind her. (1:13 onwards)
“Yeah, I mean the Olympics is a totally different challenge. I’ve had great Olympics, I’ve had tough Olympics. I try to go in with an open mind, good spirit, trusting my team. They’ve been amazing the whole season and they’ll be there for me and for all of us athletes. We’re coming in with some strong athletes. So I think it’s it’s time to enjoy that.” she said.
At the 2022 Beijing Olympics, Shiffrin put on an uncharacteristically disappointing performance, competing in five events but failing to medal. She had a DNF in giant slalom (first run) and slalom (first run), then placed 9th in super-G, 18th in downhill, and DNF in the combined (strong 5th in downhill leg but out in slalom). She will be looking to rectify these mistakes in Milan.
Shiffrin on Competing in Czechia Again
Špindlerův Mlýn holds a special place in Shiffrin’s heart, as it was the site of her World Cup debut at just 15 years old in March 2011. After her latest victory on these familiar slopes, she reflected on the emotions of returning to where her journey began. (0:57 onwards)
“I mean, to be honest, it just feels amazing to be here. I feel like when I was 15 years old still, I just loved skiing. That’s the best feeling, to be here.” she said.
In Milan, Shiffrin is set to take on the women’s giant slalom on Sunday, February 15, followed by the women’s slalom on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. Fans can also look forward to seeing her in the mixed team event.
