Ski superstar Sofia Goggia has had an emotional few hours. © Pentaphoto

"I cried for an hour straight": Goggia in emotional turmoil

Sofia Goggia is one of the most fearless downhill skiers in the world – and also a very emotional person. After her victory in Val d'Isère, the Italian gave some deep insights.

21 December 2025

From: det

Sofia Goggia experienced a sense of liberation on Sunday. For the first time since January 18, 2025 – or 337 days – the fearless downhill skier from Bergamo was back on top of the World Cup standings. Goggia left everyone behind in the Super-G in Val d'Isère, And Italy's ski darling was overjoyed – also because the 33-year-old had experienced a whirlwind of emotions in the past few hours.

On Saturday, a crucial mistake in the Val d'Isère downhill cost Goggia a podium finish, and possibly even the victory. This left the Italian skier reflective. "It was a very emotionally difficult day for me. I cried for an hour straight because it was a huge opportunity that I threw away. I had a good feeling beforehand, but yesterday's mistake hurt me enormously," said Goggia.

Goggia celebrated the victory. © ANSA / Guillaume Horcajuelo

“I wanted to get back up after that mistake, like I have so many times in my career. To win today is simply wonderful. Being on the podium is always nice, but to take the victory, that’s what I really want,” said Goggia.

The anecdote about the football coach

After her victory in Val d'Isère, the now 27-time World Cup winner shared a special anecdote. On Saturday, she had been in contact with football coach Gian Piero Gasperini, who currently manages Serie A club Roma. "Today's pain is tomorrow's fuel – I exchanged this message with Gian Piero Gasperini. I have a very good relationship with him, as he was the long-time coach of Atalanta," said the Bergamasque skier, who is a big Atalanta fan.

"Lindsey Vonn has shaken us all up." Sofia Goggia

Goggia also explained that Lindsey Vonn's performances had spurred her on. "In St. Moritz, Lindsey shook us all up and showed us that we need to raise our level," the Italian explained. "With this victory, I've given myself a wonderful Christmas present. Now, however, I'm already focusing on the next races," Goggia concluded.