My Olympic Journey: I'm Not Done Yet | WTP with Mikaela Ep. 9
Olympics: Not Designed for Comfort
Shiffrin argues that the Olympics are not designed for the comfort or optimal performance of athletes due to the immense scale and logistical challenges of the event. She realized that expecting a perfect setup for peak performance is unrealistic. This understanding shifted her focus towards embracing the spirit, opportunity, and camaraderie of the Games, rather than solely fixating on results.
Beijing: Catalyst for Growth
Shiffrin describes her experience in Beijing as a catalyst for indescribable growth, particularly in understanding and navigating grief following her father's passing. She explains that she had hoped to compartmentalize her grief during the Games, but found it impossible. This experience taught her about the unpredictable and nonlinear nature of grief and its impact on all areas of life, leading to significant personal and professional development.
External Judgment's Impact
Shiffrin acknowledges the unavoidable impact of external judgment on her Olympic experience, particularly after the intense scrutiny she faced following Beijing. She admits she cannot erase the negative comments and criticisms, but chooses to view them as part of the multifaceted journey the Olympics offer. Shiffrin emphasizes that no single Olympics can definitively define an athlete, highlighting her career's continued success since Beijing.
Shiffrin on Adapting to Snow Conditions
Mikaela Shiffrin explains how she adapts to varying snow conditions, noting that each ski company has a specialty condition, similar to Formula 1 tires for different weather. She mentions that Atomic skis, which she has used since age 12, excel in icy conditions, but she has worked to improve their performance in softer snow. Shiffrin emphasizes the importance of equipment testing, athlete experience, and recalling past successes in similar conditions to adapt on race day.
The Purest Way to Ski, According to Shiffrin
Shiffrin discusses the balance between skiing as fast as possible and protecting points, explaining that the purest way to ski is to match the conditions with one's best and fastest skiing. She admits that she has sometimes held back to ensure finishing and earning points, but ideally, she wants to ski without reservation. Shiffrin emphasizes the importance of methodical focus on technique and playing with the forces of gravity to achieve speed, rather than simply willing herself to ski faster.
Shiffrin on Future Children & Skiing
Mikaela Shiffrin states that she would love her kids to do whatever they want, but would not push them into ski racing. She and Alex have discussed providing opportunities for their kids to explore various sports, arts, and instruments. Shiffrin says that if her kids want to pursue skiing, she would not hold them back, but she doesn't think she would be a great coach and would recruit her mom instead, highlighting the special relationship she has with her mother.
Shiffrin's Love for Tennis
Mikaela Shiffrin expresses her love for tennis and her desire to attend more tournaments. She mentions having been to the US Open and French Open, and would love to go to Wimbledon someday. Shiffrin says that it's challenging to fit tennis into her schedule due to her extensive travel, but she is trying to make it work so she can watch EGA, showing her enthusiasm for the sport.
Shiffrin on Advice to Younger Self
Mikaela Shiffrin reflects on what she would tell her younger self, acknowledging that it's a challenging question. She says that she wants to say believe in yourself and have more confidence, but ultimately, she needed to experience things as they came. Shiffrin also considers what she would want to know from her future self, concluding that she would either want to know everything or nothing, preferring to figure it out as she goes.
Shiffrin Reacts to Her Run
Mikaela Shiffrin watches and reacts to her second run from Spindler Molen, describing it as a hectic run where she was trying a ski setup that gave her a ton of power. She recalls a tricky combination and feeling like she barely hung on for the ride. Shiffrin says that sometimes she gets through races and doesn't know how it transpired, but she is thankful for it, highlighting the chaotic nature of ski racing.
