Jessie Diggins Powering Through Bruised Ribs at Olympics

The American cross-country skiing star is determined to compete despite her injuries.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Jessie Diggins, a decorated U.S. cross-country skier, is competing in her final Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina despite suffering from bruised ribs after a fall in her opening race. Diggins was visibly uncomfortable and struggled to generate power in the finishing stretch of the sprint classic on Tuesday. She remains determined to push on and do her best despite the frustrating start to her Olympic campaign.

Why it matters

Diggins is one of the most successful American cross-country skiers in history, having won gold in the women's team sprint at the 2018 Olympics in Pyeongchang. Her determination to compete through injury in her final Olympics is a testament to her competitive spirit and dedication to her sport.

The details

Diggins was hurt in a fall during the 20-kilometer skiathlon on Sunday, bruising her ribs. The injury has limited her ability to put in a strong finish, as double poling has become difficult due to the pain. Despite the setback, Diggins is relieved the ribs are not sprained or broken, as she has dealt with that type of injury before.

  • Diggins was injured in a fall during the 20-kilometer skiathlon on Sunday, February 9, 2026.
  • The sprint classic event where Diggins struggled took place on Tuesday, February 11, 2026.

The players

Jessie Diggins

A 34-year-old American cross-country skier who is one of the most decorated U.S. skiers, having won gold in the women's team sprint at the 2018 Olympics in Pyeongchang.

Maja Dahlqvist

A Swedish cross-country skier who won the bronze medal in the sprint classic event that Diggins competed in.

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What they’re saying

“When I crashed in the skiathlon, I bruised my ribs and it is really painful. Double poling is pretty tough right now, so I'm doing the best I can. But it's not my finest finishing stretch of my life.”

— Jessie Diggins (twincities.com)

“I'm just going to keep showing up and doing the best I can, and just putting everything I have out there.”

— Jessie Diggins (twincities.com)

What’s next

Diggins will continue competing in her remaining events at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina, including the team sprint on February 15th and the 30km mass start on February 18th.

The takeaway

Jessie Diggins' determination to push through her injuries and compete in her final Olympics showcases the competitive spirit and resilience of elite athletes. Her story is an inspiration to fans who admire her dedication to her sport despite the physical challenges she faces.