Mikaela Shiffrin Makes a Cautious Return to the Slopes After Injury
Mikaela Shiffrin, the five-time World Cup overall champion, has taken her first steps back on the snow following a significant injury sustained during the Killington giant slalom in late November. In a video shared on her Instagram account, the 29-year-old skiing sensation showcased her progress, describing the session as a “successful test on the snow.”
The footage, posted Wednesday evening, captured Shiffrin in a low-key ensemble—black ski pants and a purple down jacket—blending in with fans as she executed a series of gentle turns. “we did three descents, nothing crazy, but it was very nice,” she remarked, assessing her discomfort levels during the session as ranging between “zero” and “minimal.”
This marked her first time on skis as the injury, which occurred during a crash in the second run of the Killington giant slalom. The incident left her with a deep puncture wound in her hip area, sidelining her for over a month. While her return to the slopes is a promising sign, Shiffrin has yet to confirm whether she will compete again this winter.
In mid-December, the American star hinted at the possibility of an early end to her season, stating, “It will all depend on how I heal over the coming weeks and months.” Her cautious approach underscores the severity of the injury and her commitment to a full recovery.
Shiffrin’s resilience has been a hallmark of her career. Despite setbacks, she continues to redefine excellence in alpine skiing. Her latest update offers hope to fans eagerly awaiting her return to competition, though she remains focused on her health and long-term recovery.
Key Points: Mikaela Shiffrin’s Injury and Recovery
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Injury Date | November 30, 2024 |
| Event | Killington giant slalom |
| Injury Type | Deep puncture wound in the hip area |
| First Snow Test | January 2025 |
| Recovery Status | Minimal discomfort during light skiing; no return to competition confirmed |
| Outlook | Dependent on healing progress over the coming weeks and months |
Shiffrin’s journey back to the slopes is a testament to her determination and love for the sport. As she navigates this recovery phase, fans and the skiing community alike will be watching closely, hopeful for her triumphant return to the World Cup circuit.
For more updates on Mikaela Shiffrin’s recovery and career, follow her journey on Sports Illustrated and other trusted sources.