Jessie Diggins, a Minnesota native, is currently competing in her final season on the World Cup circuit at the age of 34. She has kicked off the 2025-26 season with remarkable performances, achieving her best-ever 10 km classic finish in Ruka, Finland, and securing her first victory at the 20 km skiathlon in Trondheim, Norway. Diggins emphasizes the importance of emotional balance in success, stating, "Success requires the emotional balance of a committed heart." This philosophy reflects her dedication to the sport, which she has pursued for nearly two decades. Diggins has made a significant impact on American cross-country skiing, with her journey recognized differently by various individuals in the sport. Some remember her as a trailblazer who brought American skiing to the forefront, while others recall her historic win at the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics, where she and teammate Kikkan Randall earned Team USA's first-ever Olympic gold medal in cross-country skiing. Her accolades include three Olympic medals, seven World Championship medals, and thirty World Cup victories, making her the most decorated American cross-country skier in history. In addition to her titles, Diggins has won two Tour de Ski overall titles and three overall FIS Crystal Globes, a record that ties her with some of the sport's most celebrated athletes. Diggins represents a unique path in skiing, having succeeded without adhering strictly to traditional Nordic methods. She has inspired younger athletes and has taken on the role of a mentor, contemplating what it means to represent the U.S. in a sport where the country has historically lagged behind. As she announced her retirement at the end of this season, each race has taken on greater significance. The World Cup Finals in Lake Placid in March 2026 will mark the end of her competitive career, following her final Olympic appearance in Milano-Cortina in February. Despite the impending end, Diggins continues to race fiercely, demonstrating her commitment to the sport and leaving a lasting legacy in American skiing.