Mikaela Shiffrin, the renowned American alpine skier, experienced a significant setback in November 2024 during the Stifel Killington Cup in Vermont. While competing in a giant slalom race and leading after the first run, Shiffrin suffered a severe crash, resulting in a deep abdominal puncture wound. This injury was so serious that it was described as “nearly life-threatening” and required immediate surgery.
In the months following the accident, Shiffrin faced considerable physical and mental challenges. She openly discussed experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms related to the crash, which significantly impacted her confidence and mental readiness. These psychological hurdles led to her decision to withdraw from the giant slalom event at the FIS World Championships in Saalbach, Austria, in February 2025. Shiffrin emphasized the importance of prioritizing her mental health and acknowledged the “mental obstacles” she was confronting during her recovery process.
Despite these challenges, Shiffrin demonstrated remarkable resilience. She made a triumphant return to competitive skiing, achieving her 100th World Cup victory in Sestriere, Italy, on February 23, 2025. This milestone not only underscored her exceptional talent but also highlighted her determination to overcome both physical injuries and mental health struggles. Shiffrin’s journey serves as an inspiring testament to the importance of addressing mental health in professional sports and the strength required to return to peak performance after significant setbacks.