UPDATE: Mikaela Shiffrin has just secured her 104th World Cup victory in a thrilling slalom race at Copper Mountain, stunning a crowd of 11,000 fans on November 30, 2025. Shiffrin dominated both runs, finishing a remarkable 1.23 seconds ahead of her closest competitor, cementing her status as a top contender this season.
This victory marks a significant moment not only for Shiffrin but also for the home state fans who rallied behind her. Arriving from Europe with lingering jet lag and fatigue from a demanding giant slalom race the previous day, Shiffrin pushed through the physical strain, buoyed by the cheers of her supporters. “The crowd completely carried me down the hill,” Shiffrin stated, highlighting the immense energy provided by the enthusiastic audience.
Despite her impressive track record, which includes holding the record for the most World Cup wins and slalom victories, Shiffrin expressed vulnerability, admitting to the pressure she felt to perform in front of such a passionate crowd. “You know it’s going to be terrible… and you have to do it anyway,” she remarked, comparing her experience to enduring a strenuous workout.
At just 30 years old, Shiffrin continues to strive for excellence. Her mother and coach, Eileen Shiffrin, shared insights into her daughter’s relentless motivation, stating, “It seems to be her baseline… she still gets really, really nervous at the races.” The emotional connection between Shiffrin and her supporters was palpable, with hundreds of young girls in attendance, cheering for their idol.
Shiffrin’s career began to soar in 2013 when she became the world slalom champion at only 17 years old, followed by her Olympic triumph at 18 during the Sochi Games. Reflecting on her journey, Shiffrin emphasized the importance of the process over results. “I am so obsessed with the feeling I get between the start and the finish,” she explained, illustrating her deep passion for the sport.
While Shiffrin excels in slalom, she faces challenges in giant slalom. After finishing fourth in the season’s first GS race in Soelden, Austria, and 14th in Saturday’s GS at Copper Mountain, she is determined to regain her top form in this discipline ahead of the upcoming Olympic Games on February 15. “It’s going to take time,” she noted, acknowledging the ongoing journey to improve.
Last year, Shiffrin faced a severe setback at Killington, Vermont, where a crash resulted in a puncture wound that sidelined her for two months. This year, she humorously contrasted her current situation with last year’s, stating, “I do not have a puncture wound… That is just super nice.”
With her latest victory, Shiffrin has officially qualified for her fourth Olympics, a milestone she cherishes. “When I can say I’ve qualified, that’s a huge step, and we have to celebrate those moments,” she declared, highlighting the significance of this achievement.
As Mikaela Shiffrin continues to break barriers and thrill fans worldwide, her dedication and passion promise to keep her at the forefront of alpine skiing. Fans and supporters can look forward to her next performance as she prepares for the Olympic season, eager to witness her pursuit of excellence once again.
