Jessie Diggins Shines in Final Olympic Season, Stronger Than Ever
Jessie Diggins, a prominent figure in U.S. cross-country skiing, is entering her final Olympic season stronger than ever. With a remarkable career, she has proven herself to be a top competitor, aiming for gold at the upcoming Milan-Cortina Games.
Training Hard in the Green Mountains
Diggins, who is 34, was recently spotted in Vermont’s Green Mountains roller skiing alongside her training partner, Julia Kern. The two athletes shared laughs and faced the challenges of summer training, focusing on technique and endurance.
“I have a lot of roller ski scars,” Diggins joked, showcasing her determination to refine her skills. With her famous stride, she glided smoothly, combining strength with grace.
Cross-Country Skiing Background
Hailing from Afton, Minnesota, Diggins ventured into various sports before discovering her passion for cross-country skiing in high school. Over the years, she balanced her competitive spirit with a focus on mental health and wellness, often training between Massachusetts and Vermont.
Her achievements are unparalleled in U.S. history, paving the way for future athletes. With multiple World Cup victories to her name, she leads a strong U.S. team heading into the Winter Olympics.
A Trailblazer in the Sport
Diggins gained global recognition in 2018 when she and teammate Kikkan Randall won the first-ever Olympic gold medal for the U.S. in cross-country skiing during the Pyeongchang Games. The victory ended a medal drought stretching back to 1976.
- 2018 Olympic Gold Medal in Team Sprint with Kikkan Randall
- 33 World Cup victories
- 3 FIS World Cup titles
- Medals in the 2022 Winter Games in Beijing
Challenges and Advocacy
Despite her accomplishments, Diggins has faced personal struggles, including an eating disorder. She emphasizes the importance of mental health, stating, “It’s okay to ask for help.” This openness has helped to foster conversations around mental wellness in sports.
As she prepares for the final Olympic season, Diggins reflects on her journey. Her platform allows her to advocate for various causes, including climate change and social justice.
Final Season and Retirement Plans
In November, Diggins announced her retirement following the Milan-Cortina Games, expressing her excitement for a new chapter in her life. “I’m just excited to honestly do a lot of gardening and most of all be home with my husband,” she stated.
Despite questions surrounding her focus and drive, Diggins continues to perform at a high level, winning recent World Cup races in Norway and Italy. With an impressive 88 career podium finishes, she is determined to go out on a high note.
Olympic Aspirations
Diggins is set to compete in all six women’s races at the upcoming Olympics, including the new 50k endurance race. Her best chances for gold may lie in the 10k women’s individual freestyle.
As she gears up for this final challenge, Jessie Diggins embodies the spirit of a true champion. “How do I want to feel at the finish line?” she asks herself, reminding her fans and fellow athletes of her ongoing commitment to excellence in the sport.
