Mikaela Shiffrin is not primarily focused on her goal of achieving 100 World Cup victories as she prepares for her return to ski racing just two months after suffering a serious injury. Instead, the upcoming slalom competition in Courchevel, France, represents a significant step in her journey towards complete recovery.
The two-time Olympic gold medalist is in the process of regaining her competitive form following a fall during a giant slalom event in Killington, Vermont, on November 30. The incident left her with severe trauma to her oblique muscles after being punctured by an object during the crash. At one point, Shiffrin expressed uncertainty about her ability to participate in this season’s races at all.
Reflecting on her current situation, Shiffrin stated, “To be here at this point is just so incredible. It’s challenging to take a step back and view the broader picture, particularly with all the excitement surrounding my pursuit of that 100th win.” She emphasized that while her participation in this race is a major milestone in her recovery, it is only one phase in her overall comeback. “I just want to enjoy being back in the start gate again,” she remarked.
Courchevel holds significant emotional value for Shiffrin. With seven World Cup victories there across different disciplines, she also boasts multiple world championship medals from this region. Notably, it was at this location that she achieved her first win following the passing of her father, Jeff Shiffrin, in February 2020. This win was pivotal in helping her believe in her ability to return to her previous form, despite the personal struggles she’s faced.
“The first race here reignited my belief that I could get back to where I was before my dad’s accident,” she shared, adding that it reinforced the idea that while her life may never return to its former state, it still holds value. “This race carries deep meaning for me, and it feels beautiful to make my return here today.”
Shiffrin’s journey back to the slopes has not been without challenges. After her crash, simple tasks like sitting up were difficult due to her lack of core strength. She underwent surgery to prevent infection from the puncture that narrowly missed her colon. Through dedicated work with her physical therapist, Regan Dewhirst, Shiffrin steadily improved her fitness. By January 1, she was back on skis, and after two weeks of practicing easy turns among the slalom gates, she is ready to return to competitive racing.
“Once I could sit up in bed, we hit the ground running,” Shiffrin explained. “Our goal was to find ways to improve every single day; it has felt like a sprint towards recovery.” Reaching the start gate in Courchevel is already a significant achievement for her.
“I want to demonstrate to the world that I truly wish to be here,” she said earnestly. “This might seem straightforward, yet I had doubts about whether returning this season would be worthwhile. I questioned not just my physical readiness but my mental resilience as well. However, being here suggests I have found some confidence in our decision to push forward.”
Moreover, the encouragement she has received from her teammates and competitors has made a difference during her recovery. Messages expressing that she has been missed in the circuit have uplifted her spirits. “Each note literally brightened my day,” Shiffrin said. “I am determined to persevere through my uncertainties and fears.”
“This mindset extends beyond racing—it’s about my legacy. I want to be present and perform at my best,” she concluded, resolute to carry this mentality throughout the remainder of the season.
