Mikaela Shiffrin is a name synonymous with alpine excellence. As the most decorated World Cup skier in history—male or female—her dominance on the slopes is a matter of record, highlighted by her two Olympic gold medals and countless shattered records. Yet, beyond the race gates, the American superstar cultivates a surprisingly well-rounded life built on a few curious and unconventional habits that power her success.
For those who only watch the downhill rush, here are some top facts you might not know about the woman often called the Queen of Slalom.
The Power of the Pause: “Sir Naps a Lot”
In the high-octane world of professional sports, many athletes prioritize grueling workout regimens and hyper-focused drills. Shiffrin’s secret weapon, however, is decidedly more low-key: sleep. She is famously known among her teammates by the affectionate nickname, “Sir Naps a Lot,” and she embraces the moniker completely.
Shiffrin strives for at least nine to ten hours of sleep nightly, supplementing this rest with tactical power naps throughout the day, even between World Cup race runs. This isn’t laziness; it’s a science-backed dedication to recovery. She views sleep as her ultimate form of meditation, recognizing that cellular repair, hormone regulation, and cognitive recovery are non-negotiable for an athlete competing at her level. In a hilarious anecdote, Shiffrin once revealed that she woke up from a nap only to be informed by her mother and coach, Eileen, that she had clinched the 2017 World Cup overall title.
Unplugging with the Arts: A Musician at Heart
While her focus on the mountain is laser-sharp, Shiffrin deliberately balances the intensity of competition with creative pursuits. She is a talented musician, playing not one, but two musical instruments: the piano and the guitar.
Shiffrin often shares snippets of her musical side on social media, treating her fans to covers and original riffs. This dedication to music is more than just a hobby; it serves as a crucial emotional outlet and a means of connecting with her late father, Jeff Shiffrin, who passed away in 2020. Her artistic side also extends to dancing, allowing her to unplug, express herself, and return to the slopes with a refreshed mind.
The Race Day Rituals
Shiffrin’s pre-race routine also features an unexpected element of calm: word search puzzles. While competitors might blast music or visualize the course, Shiffrin often engages in a quiet, competitive word search with her mother. This exercise, a family tradition, is a simple, effective tool for calming her nerves, sharpening her focus, and mentally preparing her for the split-second decisions required on the slope.
From her commitment to restorative sleep to her passion for music and puzzles, Mikaela Shiffrin proves that the path to athletic immortality is paved not just with discipline, but with a strategic commitment to mental and emotional balance. She is truly a champion defined by her holistic approach to life.