Mikaela Shiffrin Sets New Alpine Skiing World Record with 95th Career Victory in Lenzerheide
Mikaela Shiffrin etched her name even deeper into skiing history today, claiming her 95th career World Cup victory in the season-ending slalom at Lenzerheide, Switzerland. The 31-year-old American shattered Ingemar Stenmark's legendary record of 86 wins, which had stood as the gold standard in alpine skiing for over four decades, cementing her status as the greatest ski racer of all time.
Shiffrin's victory came in dominant fashion, finishing 0.73 seconds ahead of Slovakia's Petra Vlhova in second place, with Sweden's Sara Hector completing the podium. The American posted the fastest time in both runs, showcasing the technical precision and aggressive racing style that has defined her remarkable career. As she crossed the finish line and saw her winning time, Shiffrin raised her arms in triumph before being mobbed by her team and fellow competitors who understood the magnitude of the moment.
"I honestly can't believe it," an emotional Shiffrin said during the post-race interview. "Ingemar's record seemed untouchable when I started my career. To think that I've now surpassed it feels surreal. This sport has given me everything, and to reach this milestone in front of such an incredible crowd makes it even more special." The victory also secured Shiffrin her eighth overall World Cup title, extending her own record for most crystal globes won by any skier in history.
The achievement represents the culmination of an extraordinary season for Shiffrin, who has won 14 of the 17 slalom races contested this year. Her consistency across all disciplines has been remarkable, with podium finishes in giant slalom, super-G, and even downhill events. The versatility that has characterized her career was on full display throughout the 2025-26 campaign, as she adapted her technical skills to compete at the highest level across multiple specialties.
Stenmark himself was present at Lenzerheide to witness history, and the 70-year-old Swedish legend was among the first to congratulate Shiffrin after her record-breaking run. "Mikaela is the greatest ski racer I have ever seen," Stenmark commented. "Her dedication, technique, and mental strength are unmatched. I am honored that she has surpassed my record, and I believe she will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in our sport."
With today's victory, Shiffrin has now won races in 15 different countries and claimed victories in all five alpine disciplines. Her 95 wins include 60 slalom victories, 20 giant slalom wins, 8 super-G triumphs, 4 downhill victories, and 3 parallel slalom successes. At 31 years old, she shows no signs of slowing down and has already announced her intention to compete through the 2030 Winter Olympics in the French Alps.
As the skiing world celebrates this historic achievement, attention now turns to how many more records Shiffrin might break before her career concludes. With her unparalleled work ethic and continued passion for competition, the milestone of 100 career victories seems not just possible, but inevitable. Today in Lenzerheide, the sport witnessed greatness in its purest form.
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