Innsbruck, Austria – As his World Cup competitors near the end of their season, Norwegian ski sensation Aleksander Aamodt Kilde finds himself far from the slopes. The ski racer is currently in Innsbruck with his left arm immobilized and restricted to short, 30-minute strolls. After undergoing a complex surgical procedure to address a shoulder injury, Kilde is on antibiotics to ward off possible infection, which limits both his method of mobility and leisure activity. The surgeons, in repairing his shoulder, harvested a portion of his left hamstring muscle, which in turn has curtailed his capacity for walking.
Kilde, previously sidelined by a significant ski crash on January 13, 2024, remains hopeful about returning to competitive skiing next season. The return might not coincide with the very start, but he optimistically looks forward to participating in the approach to the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics. The current period is particularly challenging for Kilde, as his peers, including his fiancée, American ski racer Mikaela Shiffrin, gather in Sun Valley for the World Cup finals while he recuperates on the sidelines.
Reflecting on his current situation, Kilde shared via a recent virtual interview his yearning to be amidst the action. He expressed how being physically unable to perform routine skiing maneuvers has made his goal feel more distant. Fourteen months prior, the 32-year-old’s top-tier career was abruptly paused following a crash in Wengen, Switzerland. This incident required surgery on his calf and shoulder, further complicated by his re-encounter with shoulder issues over the summer.
Faced with a complex surgery involving three medical professionals about four weeks ago, Kilde described the operation as intricate. The surgical team utilized a fragment of Kilde’s hamstring muscle, leading him to focus on strengthening it beforehand in the gym. This process also involved using a graft from his trapezius muscle, all culminating in an extensive reconstruction designed to restore his shoulder’s function. Remaining in a sling, he anticipates another two weeks in this state, alongside a strict antibiotic regimen to stave off infection.
Despite the current ambiguity surrounding his recovery, Kilde is optimistic due to the absence of pain. While his injured shoulder appears smaller compared to the other, he notes its correct alignment as a positive sign, hopeful it marks a step in the right direction without further complications. His mother has visited to assist with daily tasks, providing comfort during his recovery. Kilde, who settled in Innsbruck approximately five years ago, finds solace in small joys–basking in the alpine sunshine and savoring the crisp, invigorating air.
Shiffrin’s role in Kilde’s recovery is notable, offering emotional support akin to the aid they constantly provide each other. When addressing potential future relationship milestones like setting a wedding date, Kilde humorously notes it’s yet to be determined. Known for his engaging presence on the ski circuit, Kilde receives an outpouring of encouragement from fellow racers, friends, and fans alike. These messages sustain his spirit, igniting a determination to return to competitive skiing.
Further occupying his downtime, Kilde pursued academic interests, commencing a real estate program at the London School of Economics. However, with a greater focus on physical rehabilitation, he temporarily set aside his studies. Contemplating his recent surgery, Kilde marvels at how quickly the time has passed since then.
Looking toward the future, Kilde’s objective remains clear—though striving to compete next season is part of the plan, he steadfastly aims to take part in the Olympics. Reflecting on his past success, including silver and bronze medals at the 2022 Beijing Games, Kilde finds motivation in being ready for top-level competition once more. His overarching ambition remains simple: to recover, return to skiing, and reclaim his place in the sport.