Mikaela Shiffrin, a celebrated US skier, enjoyed her role as a superfan at Paris 2024, witnessing remarkable achievements of Team USA. She cherished the unique Olympic atmosphere and looked forward to her upcoming World Cup season, reflecting on her dual identity as an athlete and a fan.

Mikaela Shiffrin, the renowned US alpine skiing champion, has been an Olympian since Sochi 2014, securing three medals including two golds. However, her recent experience at the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics was unique, embracing her role as a Team USA superfan. “I’m mostly watching events, cheering on Team USA. One of the reasons I was interested in coming is to get in touch with this Olympic vibe that’s a bit different from our normal competitions,” she shared.

Shiffrin expressed the invigorating atmosphere of the Olympic Games, stating, “Even though it’s summer, it’s still the organisation around it, the magnitude of the event, the kind of feeling you get.” She appreciated the distinct colors and the sensory experiences that characterize the Olympics, which she finds markedly different from her competition experience.

As a Team USA enthusiast, Shiffrin relished witnessing many American athletes succeed in various events, including Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone’s remarkable world record in the 400m hurdles. She noted, “I am such a big fan of athletes competing at their highest level.” Her enthusiasm extended to observing women’s USA teams clinch gold medals in football and basketball, as well as acknowledging fellow gold medalists Katie Ledecky and Gabby Thomas.

Shiffrin had the opportunity to meet various athletes, including canoeing champion Jessica Fox and fencer Miles Chamley-Watson. A standout moment was her long-awaited meeting with seven-time Olympic champion Simone Biles, whom she adores. Regarding gymnastics, Shiffrin remarked, “I love watching gymnastics. I think that’s been incredible. I loved watching Simone.”

While in Paris to connect with commercial partners, Shiffrin is also preparing for her upcoming 15th World Cup season, which begins on October 26 in Soelden, Austria. She mentioned, “The preparation is going well,” and is currently enjoying a recovery period from recent practice sessions, with plans to travel to South America soon for further training.

Mikaela Shiffrin is a prominent figure in US alpine skiing, recognized for her impressive Olympic track record and numerous achievements in the World Cup. Her transition to experiencing the Olympics as a fan, particularly in a summer setting such as Paris 2024, offers a fresh perspective on the grandeur of the Games. Shiffrin’s ongoing commitment to her sport and her role as an enthusiastic supporter reflects a balance of elite athlete awareness and fan engagement.

Mikaela Shiffrin’s experience as a fan at the Paris 2024 Olympics provided her with a refreshing perspective on the Games. In her role as a superfan, she fully embraced the unique atmosphere and celebrated the achievements of fellow athletes. With her competitive career approaching, she maintains a positive outlook as she prepares for the upcoming World Cup season, firmly balancing her dual identities as an athlete and a supporter of Team USA.

Original Source: www.olympics.com

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