Jessie Diggins retires as the most decorated American cross-country skier in history
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Afton-native Jessie Diggins has four Olympic medals, a slew of championship titles and years of dedication to the sport of cross-country skiing. Sunday, at Lake Placid in New York, was her last day crossing a finishing line for skiing.
The 34-year-old came in 12th place after a crash late in the race. Former Star Tribune reporter Rachel Blount said Diggins’ ability to push herself to her limit is what made her great.
“But it also took a huge toll on her body, and that was the main reason that she decided to step away,” she said.
Diggins has pushed through cracked ribs and food poisoning and has been open about her eating disorder as a world-class athlete. Blount said the legacy Diggins leaves on skiing in the United States is enormous.
“She inspired scores of young people, just thousands and thousands,” she said. “The U.S. men even were inspired by Jessie.”
Listen to the full conversation by clicking the player above.
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