Aleksander Kilde made an emotional return to World Cup skiing on Sunday, finishing 24th in the Super-G at Copper Mountain, Colorado, after a 22-month absence due to a severe leg injury.
The 33-year-ancient Norwegian, a former overall World Cup champion, hadn’t competed since a harrowing crash on the Lauberhorn downhill in Wengen, Switzerland, in January 2024. That accident resulted in a deep cut to his lower leg and a dislocated shoulder, requiring multiple surgeries and a period in a wheelchair.
Kilde’s comeback was particularly poignant for his fiancée, American ski star Mikaela Shiffrin, who watched from the finish area. As Kilde crossed the finish line, Shiffrin was visibly moved, covering her face with her hands and shedding tears behind her sunglasses before embracing him in a heartfelt hug. Swiss broadcaster SRF documented the emotional scene.
Despite the long road to recovery, which at times threatened his career and involved a shoulder infection, Kilde expressed before his return that he anticipated ongoing challenges with his shoulder. Marco Odermatt won the Super-G race, while Kilde’s mere participation marked a significant milestone in his rehabilitation. This return could be a crucial step toward a potential Olympic start in February.
Kilde previously achieved success as the 2020 overall World Cup winner and has earned multiple Olympic and World Championship medals. Blick reports that Kilde and Shiffrin became engaged in 2024.
The ski couple recently enjoyed a day on the slopes together, according to sport.ch, adding another chapter to their story as they navigate the challenges and triumphs of professional skiing together.
