Mikaela Shiffrin: The Undisputed Queen of Skiing’s World Cup History
Mikaela Shiffrin has cemented her legacy as the most successful skier in the history of the World Cup. On Sunday, February 23, 2025, in Sestriere, Italy, Shiffrin achieved a monumental milestone by securing her 100th career World Cup race victory. This triumph marked the culmination of a journey that had been temporarily derailed by a devastating crash in November 2023. Competing in her signature slalom event, Shiffrin dominated the race, extending her first-run lead to finish an impressive 0.61 seconds ahead of Zrinka Ljutic of Croatia. Her U.S. teammate Paula Moltzan rounded out the podium in third place, adding to the celebration of a historic day for American skiing.
Shiffrin’s victory not only solidified her position as the all-time leader in World Cup wins but also tied another historic record. With her 155th career podium finish, she matched the record set by Swedish skiing legend Ingemar Stenmark, who had held the mark for decades. Shiffrin’s reaction to this achievement was one of disbelief and overwhelming emotion. After crossing the finish line, she gazed at the scoreboard, her face a picture of astonishment. She then lay down on the snow, her head in her hands, before being helped to her feet by Moltzan, who embraced her in a heartfelt moment of camaraderie and shared joy.
A Journey of Resilience and Triumph
The road to Shiffrin’s 100th victory was far from smooth. Just three months prior, she had secured her 99th win in a slalom race in Gurgl, Austria, making the 100th win seem all but inevitable. However, during a giant slalom race in Killington, Vermont, just one week later, Shiffrin suffered a brutal crash while leading after the first run. The fall left her with severe injuries, including significant trauma to her oblique muscles and a deep puncture wound. These injuries forced her to take several weeks off from competition and left her grappling with "PTSD-like" anxiety about racing in the giant slalom discipline.
Despite these challenges, Shiffrin’s resilience shone through as she returned to the slopes with unwavering determination. Her comeback was marked by a mix of struggles and triumphs. In the giant slalom races held in Sestriere, Shiffrin finished a disappointing 25th on Friday and, for the first time since 2012, failed to make the top 30 in the first run on Saturday. However, her return to her favored slalom event on Sunday proved to be the perfect antidote to these setbacks. With a masterful performance, Shiffrin reminded the world why she is the sport’s greatest athlete, extending her lead from the first run to claim victory.
Shiffrin and Stenmark: Two Legends Redefining Greatness
Mikaela Shiffrin and Ingemar Stenmark are widely regarded as the two greatest record-setters in the 58-year history of the World Cup. Shiffrin’s 100th victory not only extended her own record but also brought her into a historic tie with Stenmark’s 155 podium finishes. Stenmark, a Swedish skiing icon, had set the benchmark for excellence during his career, securing 86 World Cup wins before retiring in 1989. His final victory, a giant slalom race in Aspen, Colorado, also marked his 155th and last podium appearance.
Shiffrin surpassed Stenmark’s win record in March 2023, a feat that seemed unimaginable when he retired nearly 34 years earlier. Her ability to not only match but exceed the achievements of a legend like Stenmark underscores her unparalleled dominance in the sport. While Stenmark’s records once seemed unassailable, Shiffrin has redefined what is possible, inspiring a new generation of skiers and fans around the world.
Overcoming Adversity: A Heartfelt Victory
Shiffrin’s 100th victory was more than just a testament to her skill and dedication; it was a deeply personal triumph over adversity. In a post-race interview, she fought back tears as she reflected on the challenges she had faced in recent months. "Everyone had been so nice and so supportive," she said, her voice trembling with emotion. "I am so grateful, thank you." Her words spoke to the profound gratitude she felt for the unwavering support of her team, family, and fans during her darkest moments.
The victory was a culmination of not just her physical recovery but also her mental and emotional resilience. Shiffrin’s journey from the depths of injury and doubt to the heights of historic success serves as a poignant reminder of the power of perseverance and determination. Her ability to bounce back from setbacks and continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible is a testament to her character and her unyielding passion for the sport.
A Legacy of Excellence and Inspiration
Mikaela Shiffrin’s achievements on the slopes are a mere reflection of her broader impact on the sport of skiing. Her 100th World Cup victory and 155th podium finish are not just records; they are milestones in a legacy of excellence that continues to inspire millions. As she stood on the podium in Sestriere, her emotions raw and her heart full, Shiffrin symbolized more than just an athlete at the pinnacle of her sport. She represented the embodiment of resilience, determination, and the unrelenting pursuit of greatness.
Shiffrin’s journey is far from over, and her continued dominance promises to write even more chapters in the story of her historic career. For now, her 100th victory stands as a celebration of her unwavering spirit and her place as one of the all-time greats in the world of sports. As she so eloquently expressed, her gratitude extends not just to herself but to everyone who has supported her along the way—a fitting sentiment from an athlete who continues to redefine the limits of what is possible.
