Minnesota-native and America's greatest cross-country ski champion Jessie Diggins announces retirement

Diggins will participate in the 2026 Winter Olympics and World Cup Finals in March, then hang up the skis
Jessie Diggins (USA) celebrates her silver medal in cross-country skiing women's 30km mass start during the closing ceremony for the Beijing 2022 Olympic Winter Games at Beijing National Stadium.
Jessie Diggins (USA) celebrates her silver medal in cross-country skiing women's 30km mass start during the closing ceremony for the Beijing 2022 Olympic Winter Games at Beijing National Stadium. Photo credit (Rob Schumacher-Imagn Images)

Cross country ski champion Jessie Diggins says this season will be her last.

The 34-year old Afton, Minnesota native announced Wednesday morning that she will compete in the upcoming Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina, Italy, her fourth Winter Games.

She added that she plans to finish her career at the World Cup Finals in Lake Placid, New York in March.

"To be able to close out this chapter of my life surrounded by family, friends, team and the incredible community and fans who have lifted me up every step of the way - that means everything to me," Diggins wrote on social media.

Diggins is the most decorated cross-country skier in American history. She's currently the sport's reigning overall champion, which she's won three times. Her first was in 2021, when she became the first U.S. woman ever to win the title, and first American to win since 1982 (Bill Koch).

Diggins is also known for her steadfast advocacy of mental health, sharing intimate and personal details of her struggles with an eating disorder.

"I’ve thought a lot about how I might somehow express what this sport and all the people it’s led me to means to me…but the truth is, I keep crying every time I try! I’m excited, emotional, and proud of the advocacy work it’s allowed me to do, especially in the mental health, snow access and climate spaces," Diggins added.

The Milano-Cortina Winter Games runs from February 6-22, 2026. Diggins schedule for the Olympics is not set yet, but her likely races could include the Skiathlon, Sprint, 10km Freestyle, Relay, Team Sprint, and 50km Classical.

Featured Image Photo Credit: (Rob Schumacher-Imagn Images)