Jessie Diggins, the most decorated American cross-country skier, is reveling in life after retirement while passionately advocating for important social issues. Having hung up her skis following a triumphant career that spanned 15 years, Diggins is excited about exploring new avenues and sharing her voice on topics close to her heart.
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In March 2026, Diggins concluded her professional skiing journey on a high note, clinching her fourth Cross-Country World Cup title during her final race at the World Cup Finals in Lake Placid, New York. Surrounded by nearly 15,000 supporters, she felt a profound connection to the community that had followed her through her athletic career. “I felt so much love for the community,” Diggins reflected in an interview. The emotional farewell was a perfect culmination of her time in competition, a realisation she describes as coming gradually over the years.
The decision to retire came when Diggins began re-evaluating her priorities. Once the focus of her life revolved solely around skiing and travel, her outlook shifted significantly after meeting her husband, Wade Poplawski. “The sacrifices started to build,” she explained, recognising that her dreams of endless competition were evolving. Diggins wished to step away from skiing while still full of joy, leaving the sport on her own terms.
A crucial aspect of her retirement was ensuring that her advocacy work did not take a back seat. Diggins had concerns that stepping away from the ski circuit could diminish her visibility for causes she deeply cares about, like climate change and mental health awareness. However, she soon realised that her passion for storytelling could extend beyond the ski slopes. “I love speaking,” she emphasised, noting that she could continue to inspire others without being a competitive athlete.
In this new phase of her life, Diggins has traded the rigorous training regime for a well-rounded routine that includes compelling campaigns, keynote speeches, and even some homemade granola. Physical fitness remains important to her, and she still dedicates time to working out, whether through weight training or her newfound delight in trail running. Evenings are often spent leisurely, either walking around the neighbourhood with her husband or lounging in a hammock.
As she embarks on this journey of advocacy, two organisations have taken centre stage for Diggins. Protect Our Winters (POW) aims to ensure that young winter athletes can practice and compete on natural snow rather than artificial surfaces. This cause resonates personally with Diggins, who has experienced the impact of climate change throughout her career.
Additionally, mental health advocacy remains a significant part of Diggins’ mission. She has openly discussed her past struggles with an eating disorder, crediting The Emily Program for her recovery and often showcasing the organisation’s logo on her competition attire. Her commitment to mental wellness invites conversations about mental health and encourages others to seek help.
Looking ahead, Diggins is exploring various possibilities for her future, including the realm of broadcasting. When asked about the prospect of becoming a commentator for professional skiing, she remained open but cautious. “I don’t want to be on the road all the time,” she stated, expressing a desire to stay connected to the sport while also leaving room for her advocacy efforts.
As Diggins forges her path, she also plans to engage in new hobbies. “Expect to see a lot of garden and baking and knitting content from me over the years,” she mused, signifying a shift towards a more personal and creative lifestyle that she looks forward to embracing.
As she takes this next step, Jessie Diggins is not just leaving behind her athletic career; she is stepping into a world filled with opportunities to impact lives positively. Through her continued advocacy work, she aims to inspire both new and seasoned athletes alike, ensuring her legacy extends far beyond the racecourse.