Mikaela Shiffrin wins last slalom before Olympics and locks up record ninth season discipline title - AP News

Mikaela Shiffrin has secured her record ninth season title in slalom, becoming the first skier in the six-decade history of the World Cup to achieve this milestone in one discipline. She clinched the title with two races remaining before the Olympics, solidifying her status as a dominant force in the sport. Shiffrin's victory in the final slalom race before the Olympics adds to her impressive career, marking her 108th World Cup win. The 30-year-old American skier is now considered a favorite for Olympic gold as she heads into the upcoming Games. Her achievement in slalom is particularly notable as it sets her apart from other skiers, including her U.S. teammate Lindsey Vonn, who has eight downhill titles. Vonn's record, while impressive, does not match Shiffrin's achievement in slalom, highlighting Shiffrin's unique position in the sport. In addition to her slalom success, Shiffrin has also returned to the podium in giant slalom, further demonstrating her versatility and skill across different skiing disciplines. The recent races in Spindleruv Mlyn, Czechia, showcased not only Shiffrin's talent but also the strength of the U.S. team, which saw multiple athletes finishing in the top eight. This performance sets a positive tone for the U.S. skiing team as they prepare for the Olympic competition.