Shiffrin training in Sölden GEPA pictures

Key Takeaways from Mikaela Shiffrin’s Sölden Press Conference

Mikaela Shiffrin gears up for the 2024–25 World Cup season, focusing on skiing her best, not chasing the 100-win milestone, even as others highlight her record-breaking potential. Shiffrin is ready to face the challenges ahead with a strong preseason behind her and major adjustments to her approach.

However, this season has notable absences, including Shiffrin’s number one rival, Petra Vlhová, who will return soon, and her fiancé, Aleksander Aamodt Kilde, who has announced he will not compete this season.

Eyes on Victory in GS

Shiffrin feels confident in her training when heading into the weekend’s giant slalom race in Sölden. “I’ve had some great training days… but race day is an entirely different beast,” she noted, underscoring the unique pressures of competition. Despite the nerves that come with the season’s first race, she feels ready to face the challenge.

“I’m in a good place right now, and that is something I’m really grateful for,” she said, crediting her team for their hard work and support throughout her training block.

Training for Success, Not Records

After a tough previous prep season filled with weather challenges, Shiffrin’s training block this year has been much smoother. “It is just such a stark contrast to last season, where we fought and struggled with the weather,” she said, noting the productive sessions in slalom, giant slalom (GS), and Super-G in Chile and Argentina.

Despite discussions about her chasing 100 wins—she currently sits at 97—Shiffrin remains focused on her skiing. “I’m energized by people bringing energy to the sport… but the number itself is not what I’m chasing,” she emphasized. For Shiffrin, it’s about bringing her best to every race and letting the victories follow.

Rivalry on Hold

One key aspect missing from the season opener in Sölden is Shiffrin’s fierce rivalry with Slovakian skier Petra Vlhová. Both skiers pushed each other to new heights before injuries interrupted their momentum last season. Although Shiffrin regained strength, Vlhová will not compete in Sölden as she recovers.

“I miss our rivalry, but I spent some time with Petra recently, and she’s awesome,” Shiffrin shared, highlighting the mutual respect they’ve developed. While their on-slope battles are on hold, Shiffrin praised Vlhová’s decision to take her time to return. “It’s smart… it will pay off in the long run,” she said, admiring her rival’s approach.

Aamodt Kilde Out for the Season

In addition to Vlhová’s absence, Shiffrin’s fiancé, Aleksander Aamodt Kilde, will also miss the season as he recovers from a severe injury. Kilde, regarded as one of the world’s top downhillers, suffered an injury in January that has kept him out of competition. Shiffrin expressed her disappointment but also understanding of his situation.

“It’s not fun to be apart… but we’re incredibly supportive of each other,” she said. Despite being on different paths, Shiffrin finds motivation in Aamodt Kilde’s resilience. “I’m going to see him in Sölden this weekend, which is wonderful,” she added, looking forward to having him by her side, even if he won’t compete.

Eyes on GS and Super-G

With Vlhová and Kilde sidelined, Shiffrin remains laser-focused on the three disciplines she has prioritized this season: slalom, GS, and Super-G. She made the decision to drop downhill from her schedule to concentrate on refining her skills in the other events. “I’ve been focusing on Super-G training… combining downhill speed and GS technical skills,” she explained, ready to see the results of this targeted approach.

A New Season, A New Outlook

As the World Cup season kicks off, Shiffrin remains grounded, focusing on her performance while recognizing the significance of reaching her 100th win. “It’s never obvious and never easy,” she said, drawing from experiences like watching other elite athletes at the Paris Olympics, which gave her perspective on the challenges of maintaining high performance.

Shiffrin’s ability to stay focused on her skiing while dealing with the absence of key figures like Vlhová and Aamodt Kilde demonstrates her resilience. With strong training and a clear mindset, she’s ready to start the season and continue building her legacy—not for the records, but for the love of the sport.