Mikaela Shiffrin, the renowned alpine skiing champion, has shared heartbreaking family news following the conclusion of her remarkable comeback season. After achieving her 100th World Cup victory in Sestriere, Italy, on February 23, 2025—a milestone that solidified her status as a legend in the sport—Shiffrin revealed the profound personal challenges she has faced during this period.
In November 2024, Shiffrin suffered a severe crash during a giant slalom race in Killington, Vermont, resulting in a puncture wound to her abdomen and significant muscle trauma. This injury required surgery and a two-month recovery, during which she grappled with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), leading to her withdrawal from the World Alpine Skiing Championships.
Throughout these professional hurdles, Shiffrin has also been mourning the loss of her beloved grandmother, affectionately known as “Nana,” who passed away recently. Nana was a significant source of inspiration and unwavering support in Shiffrin’s life and career. In a heartfelt social media post, Shiffrin expressed her deep sorrow, stating, “Nana was my biggest supporter, always cheering me on no matter the distance. She was my guiding light, my inspiration, and the strongest person I knew. Losing her feels like losing a part of myself.”
This familial loss adds to the grief Shiffrin has experienced since the passing of her father, Jeff Shiffrin, in February 2020 due to an accident at the family home in Colorado. Jeff was instrumental in Mikaela’s development as an athlete, providing both innovative training methods and emotional support.
Despite these personal tragedies and professional setbacks, Shiffrin’s resilience remains evident. Her recent victories and candid discussions about mental health challenges highlight her determination to honor her family’s legacy and inspire others facing adversity. As she continues her journey, Shiffrin’s strength serves as a beacon of perseverance in the face of profound
loss.
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