Mikaela Shiffrin once again etched her name deeper into alpine skiing history with a commanding performance in Špindlerův Mlýn, Czech Republic, capturing her ninth World Cup slalom Crystal Globe on January 25, 2026. The victory marked the 108th World Cup win of her career and her 71st in slalom, further extending records that already place her among the greatest athletes the sport has ever seen.
Dominant Victory Seals Season Title Early
Shiffrin’s triumph came in emphatic fashion, as she won the race by a commanding 1.67 seconds over Switzerland’s Camille Rast. The margin of victory not only underlined her dominance but also secured the slalom season title with races still remaining on the calendar. With the Milano Cortina Olympics just weeks away, the American star has positioned herself as the clear favorite heading into the sport’s biggest stage.
A Full-Circle Moment at a Meaningful Venue
The setting made the moment even more powerful. Špindlerův Mlýn holds special significance for Shiffrin, as it is the same venue where she began her World Cup journey years ago. Returning to the slopes where her career took flight, Shiffrin delivered a performance that symbolized growth, resilience, and longevity at the very top of elite skiing.
Emotional Reflections After the Finish Line
In a post-race interview with TNT Sports, Shiffrin struggled to hold back tears as she reflected on the magnitude of the achievement. Overcome with emotion, she spoke candidly about the challenges she has faced throughout her career and how meaningful it felt to return to her starting point stronger and more confident than ever.
Overcoming Challenges Beyond the Slopes
Shiffrin acknowledged that the path to this milestone was far from easy. Injuries, pressure, and the relentless demands of competing at the highest level have tested her both physically and mentally. Yet, she credited perseverance, trust in the process, and support from her team for helping her push through difficult moments and continue rewriting the record books.
Momentum Builds Toward Milano Cortina
With the slalom Crystal Globe secured ahead of schedule, Shiffrin now turns her focus toward the upcoming Milano Cortina Olympics. Her current form, combined with the confidence gained from this historic victory, positions her as one of the central figures of the Games—and one of the most compelling athletes to watch across all winter sports.
Inspiring Fans Through Vulnerability and Strength
Beyond the numbers and trophies, Shiffrin’s emotional honesty resonated deeply with fans around the world. By openly sharing her joy and vulnerability, she offered a reminder that greatness is not only measured in victories, but also in resilience, perspective, and passion for the sport.