Afton Native Jessie Diggins Leaves Lasting Legacy in Minnesota

Cross-country skier's Olympic gold medal and community impact cement her place in state's sports history.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Afton native Jessie Diggins, the 2018 Olympic gold medalist in cross-country skiing, has left an indelible mark on Minnesota through her athletic achievements and community involvement. From her epic finishing kick in Pyeongchang to her warmup laps at Theodore Wirth Park, Diggins has inspired a new generation of winter sports enthusiasts in the state.

Why it matters

Diggins' Olympic triumph and subsequent advocacy for the sport of cross-country skiing have helped raise the profile of winter sports in Minnesota, a state known for its passionate outdoor recreation culture. Her local ties and commitment to giving back have also made her a beloved figure in her home state.

The details

Diggins, now 34, burst onto the international stage with her dramatic gold medal performance in the team sprint event at the 2018 Winter Olympics. Since then, she has continued to compete at the highest levels of cross-country skiing while also serving as a spokesperson and ambassador for the sport. Diggins has worked to expand access to cross-country skiing in Minnesota, particularly for youth, through coaching, clinics, and equipment donations.

  • Diggins won Olympic gold in February 2018.
  • She continues to compete on the World Cup circuit.

The players

Jessie Diggins

A native of Afton, Minnesota, Diggins is a two-time Olympian and the 2018 gold medalist in the team sprint cross-country skiing event.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Jessie's Olympic victory was a transformative moment for winter sports in Minnesota. She's inspired so many young people to get out and enjoy the outdoors.”

— Sarah Anderson, Executive Director, Minnesota Nordic Ski Association (Minnesota Monthly)

What’s next

Diggins is expected to compete in the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, Italy, where she will look to add to her legacy as one of Minnesota's all-time great winter athletes.

The takeaway

Jessie Diggins' Olympic triumph and ongoing commitment to growing cross-country skiing in Minnesota have cemented her status as a beloved sports icon in the state, inspiring a new generation to embrace the state's rich winter sports culture.