Mikaela Shiffrin hopes to end her slump at 2026 Winter Olympics - Los Angeles Times
Los Angeles Times
by Sam FarmerFebruary 14, 2026
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Mikaela Shiffrin, the most decorated female ski racer in history, is determined to overcome past struggles and secure a podium finish at the 2026 Winter Olympics. After a disappointing 15th-place finish in the slalom event during the women’s combined competition, Shiffrin emphasized her commitment to learning from setbacks and adjusting her approach for upcoming races, including the giant slalom and slalom events. Reflecting on her Beijing 2022 experience, where she failed to podium in any event, Shiffrin acknowledged the lingering shadows of that performance but vowed not to let fear of failure hold her back.
The U.S. Ski Team’s depth and camaraderie have been highlighted as a significant factor in their success. With athletes like Breezy Johnson and Jackie Wiles demonstrating strong performances, the team has already matched the medal count of past historic teams, such as the 1984 Sarajevo squad. Shiffrin drew inspiration from her teammates’ mindset, particularly Johnson’s ability to approach races with joy and freedom, rather than pressure.
Challenges in course conditions have also influenced Shiffrin’s strategy. The slalom course at Tofane Alpine Skiing Centre is less steep and icy than ideal for her skill set, requiring her to adapt her technique to maximize small time gains. Experts suggest she must refine her approach to succeed on such courses, focusing on efficiency rather than her signature precision.
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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/14/2026