Skiing
Next Generation: Pärson’s young skiers to watch
Swedish mega star Anja Pärson picks out the top ladies destined for future ski racing stardom.
The most decorated ski racer in history, with 19 major championship medals and she's a two-time overall Alpine Skiing World Cup champion, Anja Pärson knows what she's talking about.
Anja took a moment for RedBull/snow from her busy summer and wedding plans to share her exclusive top picks for future female champions.
Not just a force on the race hill, Anja Pärson made a difference in the universe of skiing, being an avid advocate of athletes’ rights and an outspoken observer on topics on and off snow. She retired in 2012 after 14 years among the elite of ski racing, and has since be working for Swedish television. From her own experience, she has a general advice for all budding talents:
In the early years, it is important to take your time to grow and develop. And stay out of injuries!
And here are Anja’s top picks for future ski racing stardom:
Mikaela Shiffrin
© Agence Zoom
Mikaela Shiffrin (USA)
Mikaela Shiffrin is the reigning world champion in slalom and two-time winner of the FIS World Cup slalom season title – but she's only 19 years old.
A star already, Mikaela can still improve further. When she does, she will be one of those girls who can win it all.
“She loves skiing and clearly has the potential. Next season, the home Worlds in Vail-Beaver Creek will be a big event for her – let’s see if she will go for two gold medals there. It will be a crazy time for her before home crowds; believe me, I know!”
Kajsa Kling in St. Moritz
© Agence Zoom
Kajsa Kling (SWE)
Perhaps a late-bloomer, Kajsa had her break-through season this year aged 25. She scored her first career World Cup podium in December in St. Moritz and recorded constant top 10 finishes in downhill, super-G and giant slalom.
“Kajsa has a great personality for success. It is now a mental challenge to build on what she did last year. I have seen her ski amazing turns and worked with her a lot during my last years of racing.”
When she finds out how good she really is and translates her momentum to even more events, she can be one of the big names.
Emelie Wikstroem
© Emelie Wikstroem
Emelie Wikström (SWE)
21-year-old Emelie is a slalom specialist who has established herself in the world’s top 20 and finished 6th in Sochi in 2014.
“If you looked at Emelie closely last year, you could see the speed under this girl’s skis.”
She has that feeling on the snow that few have.
“Over the years, she has struggled with allergies but has now found the right solution. After a strong summer she will be someone to watch out for!”
Curious to know whom Aksel Lund Svindal picked for the men’s future ski stars?
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