waterdrop®: As a professional athlete, you have experienced both triumphs and personal challenges. Could you share how pivotal moments in your career have shaped not only your approach to skiing, but also your personal development?
Mirjam Puchner: I believe that defeats in particular make a big difference – both on a sporting and personal level. My injury in 2017 and various hurdles in the years that followed presented me with completely new challenges. But what I have learnt to appreciate much more is that I have been able to turn my passion into a career and live out my dream. In competitive sport, you're often in a tunnel and forget so much around you, but my injury has sharpened my focus on the essentials again.
waterdrop®: How do you manage to stay confident and motivated when things don't go to plan? And what advice would you give to young girls and women who are struggling with self-doubt in a highly competitive environment?
Mirjam Puchner: Of course there are difficult phases in sport for me too, but knowing that I love what I do – my WHY – helps me to look ahead again. You learn the most from defeats. It's always easier said than done, but you have to have fun, stay relaxed and just enjoy it.
waterdrop®: You have already celebrated remarkable successes, such as winning the Olympic silver medal in the Super G in Beijing 2022 and the title of runner-up in the women's downhill in Saalbach 2025: how do you balance the euphoric heights of skiing with the pressure and challenges of staying at the top?
Mirjam Puchner: In my opinion, you feel the most pressure when you impose it on yourself. As an athlete, however, you have to enjoy the challenges, because it's precisely these that drive you to peak performance. Taking on a challenge is also fun.
waterdrop®: What role does the community play in empowering women in sport and how has your personal and professional environment helped you to achieve your goals?
Mirjam Puchner: I believe that the environment plays a crucial role. I am lucky that the people around me are always there for me. They support me in every situation and have my back. Overall, I think it always depends on how you communicate with people and that you cater to the individual needs of each person.
waterdrop®: Skiing and winter sports in general have a long history of strong female athletes who have overcome barriers. How do you see your role in inspiring the next generation of girls to pursue their dreams?
Mirjam Puchner: It's a wonderful feeling when I hear that children have been cheering with me in front of the TV and have followed the entire race. Moments like that are indescribable, especially because I have the impression that sport doesn't excite children as much as it used to. That's why I'm even happier if I can play just a small part in encouraging them to enjoy skiing and become active themselves. It's not always just about top-class sport, but about the joy of exercise in general.
waterdrop®: If you could give your younger self one piece of advice at the beginning of your journey, what would it be? And how could this advice inspire the next generation of female athletes?
Mirjam Puchner: I think it's really important that you never lose sight of your goal. Nevertheless, you should also enjoy everything around you and never lose your joy.
