Goggia reflects on career, olympic memories, and skiing's popularity
Goggia on podium success and future goals
Italian skier Sofia Goggia is looking ahead after a strong performance in the Soldeu downhill race, finishing third in the World Cup. The race marks a significant moment in her career, especially after recovering from multiple injuries. Goggia discusses her feelings about the season, her past achievements, and her aspirations for the future.“It was a very solid race that gives me a lot of confidence for the two super-G races tomorrow and on Sunday,” Goggia stated. “This track is more for ‘glissatrici’ than truly technical athletes, so getting on the podium is really nice. It confirms how well I’m skiing and how fit I am, and also capable of defending myself on the easier sections.”
Olympic memories and lindsey vonn
Goggia reminisces about the 2022 Winter Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo, highlighting the memorable moments and the bittersweet experience of watching teammate Lindsey Vonn's crash. The two skiers share a long-standing friendship, and Goggia expresses her concern for Vonn's well-being. The atmosphere of the Cortina arena, despite some challenges, remains a cherished memory.“I’d say the most painful thing was seeing Lindsey’s accident after a dominant season, knowing all the effort she had put in to try and win the Olympics,” Goggia said. “We’ve been friends for a long time, and I can only say she’s going through a very difficult time.”
The impact of italian skiing
Goggia discusses the resurgence of interest in skiing in Italy, attributing it to the success of female skiers. She notes the significant increase in ski sales following a successful season, comparing it to the boom of the 2018 Winter Olympics. While acknowledging that the impact might be more economic than a true ‘Avalanche’ (valanga) of popularity, she believes they have brought skiing back into Italian homes.“Compared to the 70s and 80s, our impact has been more economic. I remember the boom season in 2018, thanks to my 13 podiums, 200,000 more boots were sold. We brought skiing back into Italian homes, not just to Sanremo, but the Olympic downhill had a 37.7% share.”
Injuries and perseverance
Goggia candidly talks about the toll that a career in skiing has taken on her body. She has undergone numerous surgeries and endured constant pain. Yet, she remains determined to continue competing. This perseverance is a testament to her dedication and love for the sport.“I’ve had so many injuries – 14, 18, 19, 21, and 31 years old, before and during successes. I tortured myself to ski, to see what effect it would have. Of course, there’s the wear and tear of ligaments and joints, but I still have a lot to give to this sport, and I consider myself lucky to be in the condition I am, with all the surgeries I’ve had.”
Future aspirations
While acknowledging the difficulty, Goggia is aiming to contend for the overall World Cup title. She is focused on winning the downhill and super-G races, but emphasizes the unpredictable nature of the sport. She intends to compete in all remaining races, including those in Are.“If you come in third twice, why not dream of winning? I thought it was possible, but I especially needed to focus on something other than the Olympics, which was the subject of all the questions. Now that we’re almost at the end, I’d sign to win the downhill and super-G cups, but it won’t be easy. It doesn’t depend only on me. Surely you’ll see me at all the stages until the end, also in Åre.”
Atalanta and more
Beyond skiing, Goggia’s passion for her hometown football club, Atalanta, shines through. She shares her excitement about their recent ChampionsLeague performance. She’s also working on her PhD thesis on the history of Sports and propaganda.“My heart beats with Atalanta, the joy I felt watching them in the Champions League was incredible. It reminded me of the happiness of my city celebrating. I even went to a game after the Olympics and the atmosphere was magical, inspiring me to write my social media post at the end.”