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Canadian freestyle skier Mikaël Kingsbury, the reigning Olympic silver medalist, is poised to return to competitive action after recovering from a significant left groin injury. As he prepares for the World Cup moguls event this week in Val St-Côme, Quebec, Kingsbury expresses optimism about his recovery progress.
Having previously withdrawn from the men’s small final in December during the season opener in Ruka, Finland, Kingsbury’s injury has posed challenges since it first occurred four months ago during training. Although he does not feel completely at his peak, he acknowledges that he is nearing full health.
Progress and strategy ahead of the World Cup
In a press conference with reporters in both English and French, Kingsbury stated, “I’m not 100 percent, but I’m getting close. I’m pleased with how things are progressing.” His primary focus remains on the upcoming Olympic Games, scheduled for next month in Milan Cortina, and he recognizes the importance of making prudent decisions in preparation for this pivotal event.
As he readies for competition in single moguls on Friday night, Kingsbury enters the event with an impressive record of 99 World Cup victories. His performance on Saturday will determine his participation in dual moguls that evening. “I’ve had great success on the demanding Val St-Côme course,” he recalled, referencing his triumph last February when he clinched both singles and dual events, bringing his all-time World Cup wins to 96.
Chasing a historic milestone
One victory away from his 100th career win, Kingsbury reflects on his journey and how the prospect of achieving this milestone became realistic for him three years ago, thanks to discussions with his mental coach. “After clinching Olympic gold in 2018, I thought achieving 100 wins would be out of reach,” he shared. “Now, it feels tangible.”
Surprisingly, Kingsbury has noticed increased strength and impact on his skis during recent training sessions, which bodes well for his upcoming performances. “When you hit the 50 or 60 wins mark, it feels monumental,” he added. “It has kept me motivated through grueling gym sessions and challenging snowy days, and I know that the 100th victory will come eventually.”
Focus on health and healing
Following his groin injury, which occurred in late August or early September, Kingsbury resumed skiing at the end of November. He had been optimistic during training in Ruka, but discomfort led to his withdrawal from the small final. To aid his recovery, he has implemented various treatment methods, including ice, heat, physiotherapy, laser therapy, and red light therapy, known for its ability to reduce pain and inflammation, accelerate tissue healing, and enhance blood circulation.
“Over the last four weeks, I’ve noticed significant improvement, especially in the last three,” he explained. “It’s encouraging to see steady progress each week, allowing me to push my limits a bit further.”
Inspiration for young athletes
As the Winter Olympics approach, Kingsbury is aware that many young athletes may watch him compete at Val St-Côme. He recalls his childhood dreams of meeting athletes he admired and the importance of inspiring the next generation. “I know what it feels like to be that kid looking for autographs,” he stated, referencing his own experience as a silver medalist at the 2014 Sochi Olympics. “It’s essential to engage with those kids; I used to dream of living this life, and it’s special that I’m still pursuing those dreams.”
“If I could secure my 100th win this week, it would be a fantastic moment, especially on home turf. However, my primary goal is to perform to the best of my abilities, and I’ll let the results follow,” Kingsbury concluded. Following the Val St-Côme event, the next World Cup competition is set for January 15-16 in Waterville Valley, New Hampshire, after a location change from Deer Valley Resort in Utah due to adverse weather conditions.