In Saalbach, Austria, Mikaela Shiffrin achieved her 97th World Cup victory in the last slalom race of the season at the Alpine World Cup finals on Saturday. She started the race as the second-fastest after the initial run, just 0.11 seconds behind Anna Swenn Larsson of Sweden. However, Shiffrin put on a stellar performance in the second run to claim her 60th slalom victory.
With her mother and coach Eileen present, Shiffrin was presented with the crystal globe for her win and celebrated by raising it in the air, pumping her fist, and kissing the trophy in front of the cheering crowd. The 29-year-old had recently made a comeback after recovering from a knee injury sustained in January. She had already secured her eighth slalom globe in Are, Sweden, the previous weekend.
Reflecting on her achievement, Shiffrin expressed her happiness about ending the season on a high note and eagerly anticipating the next season. She also shared her feelings about the numerous records she has set, admitting that while she doesn’t typically focus on numbers, she is now embracing them as an honor rather than feeling pressured by them.
Initially, Larsson seemed poised to take the top spot on the podium, but a mistake during her second run cost her the lead. Ultimately, Larsson had to settle for third place behind Norway’s Mina Furst Holtmann. Shiffrin’s victory solidifying her dominance in the slalom discipline.
This victory cements Shiffrin’s status as one of the most successful racers in World Cup history, with an impressive tally of 97 wins. As she looks towards the future, Shiffrin is grateful for the support of her fans and is excited about continuing her journey in the sport.
(Reporting by Rohith Nair in Bengaluru; Editing by Hugh Lawson)
