Tess Johnson, a formidable athlete in women’s mogul skiing, has made significant strides in her sport and continues to inspire young athletes around the world. Born into a family passionate about sports, her parents, TJ and Carol Johnson, and her grandfather, former Sports Illustrated writer William Oscar Johnson, fostered an environment that encouraged her to pursue her love for skiing.
Johnson, who began skiing at the tender age of two in Vail, Colorado, initially envisioned herself competing in slopestyle. However, her introduction to a specialized program called “Bumps and Jumps” ignited her passion for mogul skiing, leading her to become the youngest athlete ever named to the U.S. Freestyle Ski Team at just 14 years old. This ground-breaking achievement was a pivotal moment not only for Johnson but also for the U.S. Freestyle Ski Team, paving the way for younger talents seeking to enter competitive skiing.
The young athlete first showcased her skills on the international stage at the Olympic Winter Games in PyeongChang 2018. At 17, she was one of six teenagers representing Team USA, where she finished in a notable 12th place in women’s moguls. Since then, Johnson has accumulated an impressive list of accolades, including medals in world championship events and consistent top-10 finishes on the World Cup circuit. Her noteworthy performances include a bronze medal in dual moguls at the 2019 Championships in Deer Valley, and a silver medal with her teammate Jaelin Kauf in St. Moritz in 2025, marking a historic achievement for the U.S. team in dual moguls.
Despite her ongoing success, Johnson faced significant challenges. In April 2023, she underwent spinal surgery to address a herniated disc that had reportedly affected her performance. Demonstrating incredible resilience, she made a strong comeback just seven months post-surgery, finishing seventh in the overall standings of the 2023-24 World Cup season. The 2025 season marked her breakthrough with her first individual World Cup victory, celebrated in Almaty, Kazakhstan, followed by yet another triumph in Ruka, Finland, during the Olympic qualifying season, ending the year in third place in the overall standings.
Outside the competitive realm, Johnson is equally dedicated to her community. She actively participates in programs that empower young girls, emphasizing mental, physical, and emotional growth. This commitment to community reflects the strong support she received throughout her upbringing. Her experience as an athlete extends beyond skiing; she was also a standout player on her school’s girls’ soccer team, contributing to two Colorado state championships.
With her journey intertwined with family legacy and a commitment to excellence, Johnson’s future looks bright as she prepares for the upcoming Olympic Games in Milan 2026, where she finished fifth in dual moguls and 10th in moguls. Tess Johnson continues to embody the spirit of determination and resilience, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere.