Mikaela Shiffrin described her journey to 100 FIS Alpine Ski World Cup victories as an emotional rollercoaster, comparing it to “whiplash” for both herself and her team. Speaking to CNN on February 25, just two days after reaching the historic milestone, she admitted that her body constantly warned her of the risks involved in her sport. However, her achievement came with a bittersweet undertone while celebrating her record-breaking success, she couldn’t help but reflect on the loss of her biggest supporter, her father, Jeff Shiffrin.
Jeff passed away unexpectedly on February 2, 2020, in an accident at their Colorado home. Five years later, in the same month, Mikaela cemented her place in history, making the moment even more poignant. Understandably, emotions ran high as she processed both her triumph and the absence of the person who had always been by her side.
In a heartfelt interview with Access Hollywood on February 27, Shiffrin opened up about her struggles with grief. When asked about missing her father during major milestones, she admitted that she doesn’t always feel his presence, despite what many people assume. “I have struggled with this frustration that I don’t always feel his presence when I want to,” she shared. Her candid response was unexpected, as was her perspective on the idea that her father would be proud of her. “People say, ‘He would be proud of you,’ but I think, ‘We don’t know that, because he’s not here,’” she said.
Despite this, Shiffrin has found her own way of staying connected to Jeff. She explained that thinking about him keeps his memory alive, even if she doesn’t always feel his presence physically. “We all experience it differently, and however you feel it is okay,” she reflected.
Her bond with Jeff was profound, going beyond just being her biggest cheerleader. He was a constant presence in her skiing career, often seen in the finish area while her mother, Eileen, stood by her side on the sidelines. In 2020, she revealed to CNN that she had bought her Colorado home because of Jeff he had helped choose it for her, and she followed his advice. Today, that home serves as a tangible connection to his memory.
Three years after his passing, on February 2, 2023, Shiffrin posted a deeply personal Instagram photo of herself embracing her father in bed. Though the image had no caption, it spoke volumes about their relationship. She remains grateful that she was able to be by his side in his final moments, a privilege she does not take for granted.
While the journey to 100 wins has been historic, it has also been deeply emotional for Shiffrin. Her father’s absence is felt at every milestone, but in her own way, she continues to honor his memory, carrying his influence with her every step of the way.
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