Mikaela Shiffrin, ski star and popular figure. © APA / EXPA/JOHANN GRODER

“Insanity”: Mikaela Shiffrin learns German

Mikaela Shiffrin is about to reach another milestone in her career: on Saturday she won the 99th World Cup race of her career. In an interview with Bavarian Radio shortly after the race, the American even learned a German word and caused laughter.

28 November 2024

From: sn

With her recent victory in the slalom in Gurgl, Shiffrin has her sights firmly set on the 100-win mark. Next weekend in Killington, she could make history if she wins her home race in the US state of Vermont. A scenario reminiscent of a Hollywood script: The most successful ski racer of the present day is celebrating a historic anniversary - and in front of her home crowd, of all places.

But despite her impressive dominance, Shiffrin is keeping her expectations low. "It's not impossible, but a lot of things have to come together," she explained recently. Hardly anyone doubts that she will be on the top step of the podium again in Vermont. The German ex-star Felix Neureuther sums it up: "She is the greatest there has ever been. For her, there are no limits."

Shiffrin can break the 100-win mark. © APA / EXPA/JOHANN GRODER

After her victory on Saturday, she was harshly critical of herself. She had delivered from a technical point of view, but she clearly lacked self-confidence that day. "I should have let go more. I should have been faster and more athletic," she said in an interview with Eurosport.

"You're insane!"

Shortly afterwards, the ski queen met reporter Markus Othmer from Bavarian Radio. He congratulated Shiffrin on her 99th World Cup victory and taught her the word that probably best describes her performance: "Incredible!" Shiffrin replied "You're insane!" and made sure that she hadn't said anything inappropriate. After the reporters explained the meaning to her, everyone burst out laughing.

This weekend in Killington, the skiing world will be watching with bated breath to see whether Mikaela Shiffrin will score her 100th victory. But regardless of the outcome of the race, she has already won the hearts of German-speaking ski fans with this achievement.