Mikaela Shiffrin, the most decorated alpine skier in World Cup all time history, crossed the finish line in fifth place during the slalom at the 2023 World Championships. While the result marked another podium near-miss for the American superstar, it sparked a bigger question: Was this her final race at a World Championships?
Here’s what we know—and why fans are wondering if an era is closing.
The Race: A Bittersweet Finish!!!
Shiffrin entered the slalom as a favorite, despite her recent focus on speed events. After a solid first run, she sat in third place, just 0.33 seconds behind leader Lena Dürr. But a cautious second run cost her time, dropping her to fifth.
- Her Reaction: “I wanted to fight, but I didn’t ski my race today,” Shiffrin admitted. “It’s frustrating, but that’s sport.”
- The Winner’s Circle: Switzerland’s Wendy Holdener claimed gold, with Dürr (Germany) and Anna Swenn-Larsson (Sweden) rounding out the podium.
For Shiffrin, fifth place is rare air—she’s won 88 World Cup races and 13 World Championships medals (7 gold). But at 28, speculation about her future is mounting.
Why Fans Are Asking: “Is This Her Last Worlds?”
- Shifting Priorities: Shiffrin has openly discussed balancing her career with life beyond skiing. After losing her father in 2020 and grappling with injuries, she’s prioritized joy over titles.
- The Olympic Factor: With the 2026 Milano-Cortina Olympics looming, Shiffrin may skip future World Championships to focus on securing a historic third Olympic gold.
- Legacy Secured: She already holds the record for most World Cup wins (male or female) and most World Championships medals by an American. What’s left to prove?
What Shiffrin Has Said
In recent interviews, Shiffrin has been candid about her timeline:
- 2023 Quote: “I don’t know how many more years I’ll race. I’m taking it season by season.”
- On Retirement: “I want to leave while I still love skiing, not when I’m burned out.”
Notably, she skipped the combined event at these Worlds to conserve energy, hinting at a strategic approach to her remaining career.
The Case for One More Run
While this could be her final Worlds, there are reasons to believe she’ll return:
- Unfinished Business: Shiffrin has never won a World Championships slalom gold. The “what if?” might nag at her.
- Team Impact: As a veteran leader, her presence inspires younger U.S. skiers like Paula Moltzan.
- The Love of the Game: Despite setbacks, Shiffrin still lights up when discussing technical events like slalom. “It’s where I feel most alive,” she said in 2022.
What’s Next??
Shiffrin will return to the World Cup circuit, where she’s chasing Ingemar Stenmark’s all-time wins record (93). Beyond that, her plans are unclear.
- 2026 Olympics: A third Olympics seems likely, but will she compete in the 2025 Worlds?
- Life After Skiing: Shiffrin has hinted at coaching, commentary, or advocacy work. “I want to help the next generation,” she told Sports Illustrated.
Fan Reactions: Gratitude & Goodbye??
Social media erupted after the race:
- “Fifth or first, you’re still the GOAT. Thanks for the memories, Mikaela!”
- “If this is the end, what a career. But selfishly… one more Worlds, please?”
Final Takeaway conclusion
Whether this was Shiffrin’s Worlds farewell or not, her legacy is untouchable. She revolutionized slalom skiing and brought grace under pressure to every start gate. As she said post-race: “I’ll keep pushing until I feel it’s time to stop.”
For now, fans should savor every race she enters—because legends don’t race forever.
What do you think? Should Shiffrin return for another World Championships, or bow out on her terms? Share your thoughts below.