Mikaela Shiffrin Claims 104th World Cup Victory at Copper Mountain

Mikaela Shiffrin showcased her remarkable talent on November 30, 2025, by securing her 104th World Cup victory during a slalom race at Copper Mountain. Competing in front of an enthusiastic crowd of approximately 11,000 fans, the American skier delivered a stunning performance, finishing with the fastest times in both runs and claiming victory by 1.23 seconds.

Despite battling fatigue from recent travels and a challenging giant slalom event the previous day, Shiffrin’s determination shone through. “It was about as hard as I thought it was going to be — just a lot of fatigue in the legs,” she commented after the race. The cheers from the crowd energized her, transforming what could have been a daunting challenge into a triumphant experience. “The louder they were, the harder I pushed,” she added, highlighting the vital role the audience played in her performance.

Shiffrin’s nerves were palpable, especially knowing the significance of the event for her home state supporters. The crowd included many young girls who looked up to her as a role model. Reflecting on the pressure, she likened the experience to a strenuous interval workout, acknowledging the pain yet pushing through with relentless spirit. “You know it’s going to be terrible, and you have to do it anyway,” she explained.

At just 30 years old, Shiffrin holds numerous records, including the most World Cup wins and slalom victories, with 67 slalom wins to her name. Her mother and coach, Eileen Shiffrin, expressed admiration for her daughter’s commitment to excellence. “I almost feel like she’s just conditioned to go out and ski the best she can possibly ski,” Eileen remarked. “She still gets really, really nervous at the races.”

Mikaela Shiffrin first gained international attention in 2013 when she became the world slalom champion at the age of 17 in Vail, later becoming the youngest Olympic slalom champion at the 2014 Sochi Olympics. Throughout her career, she has emphasized the importance of focusing on the process rather than the results, a philosophy instilled by her late father, Jeff Shiffrin. “Honestly it’s the same, it’s process,” she noted. “I am so obsessed with the feeling I get between the start and the finish when it’s good.”

While she continues to excel in slalom, Shiffrin is determined to regain her top form in giant slalom. In October, she finished fourth in Soelden, Austria, and placed 14th at the giant slalom in Copper Mountain. With the women’s Olympic giant slalom scheduled for February 15, 2026, she recognizes the need for gradual improvement in this discipline. “It’s going to take time,” she remarked, expressing a sense of excitement at being in a competitive position.

Last year, Shiffrin faced a serious setback when a crash during a giant slalom event in Killington, Vermont, resulted in a puncture wound that sidelined her for two months. Fortunately, this year’s performance marked a stark contrast. “We’re walking away from the U.S weekend, and I do not have a puncture wound,” she joked, reflecting on her recovery and resilience.

With her victory at Copper Mountain, Shiffrin officially qualified for her fourth Olympic Games. “When I can say I’ve qualified, that’s a huge step, and we have to celebrate those moments,” she stated, underscoring the significance of her achievements.

As she continues her journey toward the upcoming Olympic Games, Mikaela Shiffrin remains a formidable force in the world of skiing, inspiring fans and fellow athletes alike with her dedication and passion for the sport.