Key Highlights
- Mikaela Shiffrin praised by Simone Biles at 2026 Winter Games in Cortina d’Ampezzo.
- Biles, wife of Jonathan Owens (Chicago Bears), confirmed ongoing bond regarding mental health and elite performance through podcast series “What’s the Point.”
- Shiffrin embraces philosophy of “optimistic struggle” following poor Giant Slalom result in 2026 Games.
- Biles shared support for Shiffrin on social media, using three white heart emojis to back teammate’s optimistic message.
Shiffrin and Biles: An Unlikely Alliance
Mikaela Shiffrin, the 2026 Winter Olympic icon, has always been a beacon of consistency and excellence in her sport. Yet, as she navigated the challenges of the Women’s Giant Slalom event at Cortina d’Ampezzo, it was not just her performance that caught the world’s attention—it was also the support from an unexpected ally: Simone Biles.
A Heartfelt Backing
Simone Biles, wife of Jonathan Owens (Chicago Bears) and a former gymnastics star, has been vocal about her commitment to mental health and high-performance strategies. Their connection solidified through their January podcast series “What’s the Point,” where they shared intimate insights into their journeys. This bond is now evident in Biles’ recent tweet, where she expressed support for Shiffrin with three white heart emojis. The gesture might seem simple, but it carries immense weight.
The Philosophy of Optimistic Struggle
Shiffrin’s philosophy of “optimistic struggle” resonates deeply with her 11th-place finish in the Giant Slalom, which extended a podium drought dating back to 2018. In episode 7 of their podcast series, Biles emphasized that even at the highest levels of performance, fear and caution are ever-present companions. “I’m not even going to lie like every single time… if I’m at the end of the vault table and I’m set to compete the chinko double pike, I’m absolutely terrified,” Biles candidly shared.
Training the Mountain
The preparation for these events is as grueling as the competition itself. Shiffrin detailed the intricate process of mountain preparation, specifically mentioning the use of injection bars to create icy and fast surfaces. “We inject the mountain with water so that it’s icy and fast and hard,” she explained. This method ensures that athletes can train on conditions similar to those they will face in competition.
Global Attention
The interaction between Shiffrin and Biles is expected to draw global attention to Cortina d’Ampezzo, where the 2026 Winter Games are being held. Their shared experiences of high-stakes fear and the physical reality of their respective environments have forged a strong bond that transcends sports. The “GOAT” necklace, which Biles wears as a symbol of her legacy, also serves to engage with fans and detractors alike.
Shiffrin’s optimistic approach is a testament to resilience in the face of adversity. As she stated, “I truly believe that the valleys guide you to a peak right… you cannot climb to the top of the mountain without knowing what it means to be like struggling.” This philosophy, coupled with Biles’ unwavering support, sets a powerful example for athletes everywhere.
