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“Carried Me Through”: Following Gut-Wrenching Tragedy Mikaela Shiffrin Credits Another For Her Skiing Career

Published 11/19/2023, 8:54 AM EST

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In the erratic world of alpine skiing, where joy and sorrow can occur on the same run, Mikaela Shiffrin is an inspiration. As the youngest Olympic slalom champion, not only did she become the winningest skier after the heartbreaking loss of her father, Jeff Shiffrin; But also achieved incredible success in the sport. Her most recent victory in the slalom event in Levi, Finland, was her 89th World Cup triumph, confirming her place among the greatest skiers of all time.

Following her father’s death, Mikaela had a difficult road back to the top. Even though there were many dark clouds of sadness, her unbreakable spirit persisted. Taking a moment to bring her story to notice she recently featured in a cover story sharing her experience.

Mikaela Shiffrin gets her new feature

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In a recent Instagram post, Mikaela shared being the November/December cover of Outside Magazine’s “Outsiders of the Year” article. Her gratitude for the support that has influenced her career, in addition to her physical skills, is evident in the post. Laying on the grassy spring-themed floor drop she was captured smiling in the cover photo followed by a few other picture-perfect shots. In her long caption, she stated, “The fundamental premise in our family philosophy is to be close, loving, and caring. This has carried me through my career.”

Takeaways from the Podcast Conversation: Mikaela disclosed the special dynamics of her connection with her mother, Eileen Shiffrin. In addition to being Mikaela’s mother, Eileen has been a constant throughout her life as a manager and coach. “I’m your mom, and to some extent your manager, and to some extent your coach, and we’re also best friends,” Eileen says. Mikaela goes on to highlight the value of their family saying, “a fundamental premise in our family philosophy, to be close and to be loving and caring.” 

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While discussing, Mikaela got questioned by the influential person, Eileen, who asked, “how do you feel about that relationship that we’ve had, and was it ever hard for you to trust me? ” “You know, it was just, it was such a natural thing. It’s always been that way. So, and I’ve never seen that as anything but a gift,” replied Mikaela. These remarks reaffirm that their relationship transcends conventional roles and builds a foundation of support and trust.

Mikaela Shiffrin’s most recent truimph

It is getting harder and harder to keep track of Mikaela’s win records which are much-anticipated to reach the 100 mark. Last week, she won the 89th World Cup of her career in Levi, Finland, entering a new chapter in her legendary career.

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via Getty

Dramatic circumstances led to Shiffrin’s triumph, as she took advantage of Olympic gold medalist Petra Vlhova’s unlucky straddle during the last slalom run. After which her mother cheered for the winning daughter with the world. 

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This victory is a monument of Shiffrin’s enduring spirit, and the significant effect of those who have supported her path is the larger narrative of her career. Mikaela is a living legend in the skiing world, and she inspires people not just with her physical abilities but also with her inner strength which got her through some of the worst moments in life.

Watch This Story Who is the Richest Winter Olympian? Shaun White, Lindsey Vonn, Mikaela Shiffrin, and Others’ Net Worth Comparison

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Written by:

Divya Purohit

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One take at a time

Hi there! I am Divya Purohit, and I am a Olympics sports writer at EssentiallySports. As an avid sports junkie I delved in the world of sports journalism and started crafting content around my favorite athletes. By means of my distinct storytelling approach, I provide perceptive viewpoints on diverse sports stories.
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Edited by:

Shifa Jahan