Olympic Champion Brignone Ends Season, Cites Physical Strain
SOLDEU, Andorra (AP) — Italian alpine ski racer Federica Brignone, fresh off a historic Olympic performance at Milan Cortina, has decided to conclude her World Cup season early, citing physical exhaustion. The reigning Olympic champion in giant slalom and super-G announced her decision, acknowledging the toll the season has taken on her body.
“I think I’ve asked a lot of my body over the past few months,” Brignone said, according to Italian news agency ANSA. “I tried to continue the season, but now my body is letting me know. So I’m taking advantage of the end of the season to take a break and continue rehabilitation, which has been understandably intense throughout this time to achieve the miracle we were able to accomplish.”
Brignone’s season was marked by her double gold medal win at the Winter Olympics, a feat celebrated across Italy. Luciano Buonfiglio, president of the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI), lauded Brignone’s achievements as “more than just an accomplishment,” and supported her decision to prioritize rest.
“It’s right that she takes a break,” Buonfiglio said, also speaking to ANSA. “CONI, the Federation, and Olympic preparation are always available to Federica for any needs or desires, as they are for all the athletes who were protagonists – not just medal winners – at the Olympics. It is right to keep attention on them and, more than ever, we must be at their disposal because they are at the center of all our attention.”
Buonfiglio also acknowledged the success of Sofia Goggia in the Soldeu super-G, noting that her podium finish was not unexpected given her consistent performance.
The decision comes as Italy prepares to host the Paralympic Games, set to begin March 6th. Buonfiglio described the current international context as “difficult to comprehend,” referencing a challenging geopolitical landscape. He confirmed his attendance at the opening ceremony.
Brignone’s early season conclusion marks the end of a remarkable period for the Italian skier, who has consistently ranked among the world’s best. According to Wikipedia, Brignone was born on July 14, 1990, and has become a dominant force in alpine skiing. Recent reports indicate she achieved a record-breaking, 10 million euro winning season, as reported by Il Sole 24 ORE.
