Mikaela Shiffrin, the greatest Alpine skier ever, is struggling with her mental game ahead of the upcoming Alpine world championships. The 25-year-old American skier has withdrawn from the giant slalom race after a lingering fear following a November crash.
Shiffrin’s brain, which has allowed her to excel in the sport, can also become a hindrance. She described her mind as “a gift and a curse.” This analytical thinking can cause her to overthink and doubt herself, even when she’s on top of her game.
At the 2022 Beijing Olympics, Shiffrin was at the peak of her powers but struggled with the pressure. She didn’t complete three events, recording DNFs (did not finish) in giant slalom, slalom, and combined. Her Olympic journey became a nightmare, leaving her feeling like she couldn’t let go and stop thinking.
The November crash in Killington, Vt., has also taken a toll on Shiffrin’s mental state. She suffered a puncture wound to the abdomen and was off snow for weeks. During her recovery, she posted funny videos and joked about being “impaled.” However, as she returned to competition, she found it difficult to shake off her fears.
“I feel like my skiing technically is good, but I’m blocked, in like, mentally blocked in being able to get to the next level of pace and speed,” Shiffrin said. This mental struggle is more than anticipated, according to Shiffrin.
Shiffrin’s openness about her struggles with mental health has made her a role model for other athletes. She has spoken about the importance of accepting vulnerability and letting others in on her feelings. “The way things were coming together at the time was so exciting,” she said. “But you also have to come to terms with where you are.”
With the World Cup in her backyard, Shiffrin is focusing on recovery rather than competing. She knows it will take time to regain her form and confidence.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6127374/2025/02/10/mikaela-shiffrin-injury-recovery-world-championships