In 2025, Jessie Diggins captured her third Overall World Cup title and her second consecutive one. Yet, surprisingly, such an incredible accomplishment presents a new challenge. Here’s why:
The American media often overlooks or misunderstands winter sports. In disciplines like skiing, skating, bobsled, biathlon, and ski jumping largely dominated by European nations U.S. sports coverage tends to oversimplify. Reporters frequently fail to recognize key distinctions such as race distance, event style, course conditions, equipment, and timing, all of which heavily influence cross-country skiing outcomes. To many, skis are skis, and the best skier should win everything.
This shallow understanding creates an unrealistic burden of expectation for Jessie Diggins. A three-time Overall World Cup champion and Olympic medalist, Diggins is undeniably among the sport’s elite. However, her accolades don’t mean she is guaranteed to dominate every race — a reality she herself acknowledges. Heading into the 2026 Olympics, Diggins is a strong contender for gold in the 10km Freestyle Interval Start — her specialty — but she’s far from the only threat. Competitors like Therese Johaug, Jonna Sundling, Frida Karlsson, and Ebba Andersson pose serious challenges. Even in her best event, the outcome is unpredictable.
In other races, Diggins could certainly find the podium especially in events like the Team Sprint, where she might partner with Julia Kern. Yet the Olympic schedule, favoring Classic technique mass-starts, doesn’t perfectly align with Diggins’ strengths. Despite this, American media will likely hype her status as a World Cup champion, leading many to expect multiple medals — perhaps three, four, or even more. These sky-high expectations risk unfairly setting up disappointment.
Jessie Diggins stands as the most decorated cross-country skier in U.S. history. With her relentless drive, peak fitness, and technical excellence, she’s always a threat to win, especially under Olympic pressure. Supported by a top-tier coaching and tech team, she’s ready to shine in Val di Fiemme. We can only hope American fans will celebrate her performances with intelligence and appreciation cheering loudly whenever her talent, perseverance, and a little luck come together for another remarkable triumph.
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