Olympic Star Mikaela Shiffrin: Loss of Father ‘Still Pretty Painful’
Mikaela Shiffrin, the Olympic skiing sensation and one of the most decorated athletes in the sport, recently opened up about the ongoing pain of losing her father, Jeff Shiffrin, in 2020. In a heartfelt interview, Shiffrin spoke candidly about how the loss continues to impact her life and career, revealing that the grief she feels is still as strong as ever.
“It’s still pretty painful,” Shiffrin admitted. “Losing my dad has changed everything for me. There’s this constant feeling of emptiness that never really goes away, no matter how much time passes or how many races I win.”
Jeff Shiffrin was a constant presence in Mikaela’s life and career, often seen supporting her at races and offering guidance both on and off the slopes. His unexpected death left a profound void in her life, one that she carries with her every day. Despite the immense challenges, Shiffrin has continued to compete at the highest level, often dedicating her performances to her father’s memory.
Shiffrin’s resilience has been a testament to her strength, but she acknowledges that the emotional toll is always there. “I think about him all the time,” she shared. “Every race, every podium—it all feels different now. It’s a reminder of how much he meant to me, and how much he still means.”
For Shiffrin, her father’s legacy remains a driving force behind her pursuit of excellence. While the pain of his loss lingers, it also fuels her determination to keep pushing forward, honoring his memory with every turn down the mountain.