Mikaela Shiffrin is finally getting some much-deserved quiet time in ages. After spending countless sleepless nights over the last few months thanks to Shiffrin’s boyfriend’s horror injury, the couple is finally back home and having some downtime together. With that in mind, the iconic Alpine skiing star can turn her focus on her friends, who continue putting in the effort every day to add more achievements to their resumes.

Poland’s Iga Swiatek trounced Wimbledon winner Markéta Vondroušová hours ago to reach the semifinal of the 2024 French Open. While the tennis star aims to defend her title successfully, Shiffrin seems to have caught up with the fact that she missed out on wishing Swiatek a happy birthday on May 31, but Mikaela didn’t hesitate to rectify that, albeit being late to the party.

In her recent post on X, the 97-time World Cup winner sent out a belated birthday wish for Iga Swiatek. Sharing the original post by The Tennis Letter from 31st May, showcasing LEGO Poland’s tribute to the tennis player, Mikaela also expressed her joy by using a celebration emoji. LEGO Poland went the extra mile to make sure Swiatek’s 23rd birthday was made incredibly memorable as they created a whole LEGO tennis stadium, which boasts a stunning Iga’s Bakery on its premises.

However, the star of the setup is definitely the ongoing match, where Swiatek seems to be leading by two sets. With LEGO Nadal in the stand, Iga Swiatek seems to be breezing through the game, and her opponent looks particularly intimidated. Even Shiffrin can be spotted cheering for her dear friend, as Iga Swiatek eventually manages to lift the cup.

“Lego Poland celebrating Iga Swiatek’s birthday is the most Iga thing ever,” reads the caption of the original post, noting how Iga Swiatek’s bubbly character is perfectly encapsulated in the LEGO model. While Mikaela Shiffrin was late to send out her message, this isn’t the first time the skiing legend extended her heartfelt congratulations to Swiatek.

Mikaela Shiffrin and Iga Swiatek: A friendship for the ages

Iga Swiatek’s friendship with Mikaela blossomed in other ways, and it is as ride or die as they come. Back in January, Shiffrin lauded her friend when the latter won her 100th match as the world’s No. 1-ranked player. On the other hand, the Pole and the American share a camaraderie that is based on mutual respect. In 2022, Iga called Mikaela a “really good role model“, proclaiming her admiration of the alpine skiier. Their shared interest in advocating mental strength has also prompted them to join hands to help other sports stars find their way through difficult times.

Swiatek also talked about playing a doubles match with Shiffrin as her partner, should the chance ever arises. “We’ll organise that” the tennis star confessed it’s an opportunity she would love to make the most of. Over the years, Shiffrin and Swiatek have met several times, strengthening their bond each time. As Swiatek eyes a third straight French Open victory, it remains to be seen if the skiing star’s indomitable spirit provides any inspiration for her to go the mile.