The 2024/25 FIS Ski World Cup is poised to be an unforgettable season for winter sports enthusiasts. With Mikaela Shiffrin potentially achieving her 100th World Cup victory and the event organizers focusing on climate protection, this year’s tournament promises to be as impactful as it is thrilling. Yet, despite the excitement surrounding her return, Shiffrin herself is feeling a bit nostalgic as she prepares to compete in Levi, Finland.
Reflecting on Rettenbach and a Missed Rivalry
After an unexpectedly tough race on the Rettenbach glacier last month, fans eagerly await Shiffrin’s return to her comfort zone this Saturday. However, her emotions are mixed. The absence of her long-time competitor, Petra Vlhova, casts a shadow over her anticipation. Shiffrin admits that without her Slovakian rival, who suffered a season-ending injury earlier this year, the competition lacks a certain thrill. “I am going to miss those battles on the slope,” she shared, reflecting on the fierce but respectful rivalry that has defined much of her career.
New Challenges Ahead
Even though Vlhova won’t be joining her on the slopes, Shiffrin will still face intense competition from other ski stars like Germany’s Lena Duerr and Switzerland’s Wendy Holdener. Both competitors are looking to push Shiffrin to her limits, and Duerr, who finished close behind her last season, feels confident. With her training on track, the 33-year-old German skier is hopeful of securing a top spot and giving Shiffrin a challenging start.
As the FIS Ski World Cup unfolds, the absence of Shiffrin’s “arch-nemesis” adds a bittersweet undertone to the season. Yet with fierce contenders ready to step up, fans can expect a winter spectacle filled with suspense and unforgettable moments.