Mikaela Shiffrin has resumed skiing in Colorado as she recovers from a recent injury sustained during a race in Killington, Vermont. Shiffrin, who was pursuing her 100th World Cup win, suffered a puncture wound following a crash on November 30. Although the exact timeline for her return to competitive skiing remains uncertain, U.S. Ski Team head coach Paul Kristofic indicated that it could take another week to 10 days to determine.
Shiffrin underwent abdominal surgery to address the puncture wound and has since returned to the slopes. Kristofic expressed the challenges associated with Shiffrin’s unique injury, emphasizing the importance of ensuring her physical readiness during the healing process. Shiffrin’s team, including her personal head coach Karin Harjo and physical therapist Regan Dewhirst, has been diligently supporting her recovery efforts in Colorado.
This injury marks the second consecutive season where Shiffrin has faced a significant setback, with a previous crash resulting in knee ligament sprains. Despite these obstacles, Shiffrin has shown resilience in her recovery and return to competition. The focus now is on preparing her for a potential comeback to the World Cup circuit, with the upcoming world championships in Austria looming on the horizon.
The decision regarding Shiffrin’s participation in the world championships remains uncertain, as her return to snow training has just begun. Kristofic emphasized the importance of taking the necessary steps to ensure a safe and successful return to racing, noting that the timeline for her comeback will depend on her progress in the coming days.
Looking ahead, Shiffrin’s potential participation in the World Cup finals in Sun Valley, Idaho, at the end of March is also a consideration. As she continues her recovery and training regimen, Shiffrin and her team are focused on regaining her confidence and form to compete at the highest level once again.
While uncertainties persist regarding Shiffrin’s return to competition, her determination and dedication to her recovery process are evident. The skiing world eagerly awaits her comeback, hoping to see her back on the slopes showcasing her remarkable talents in the near future.
