The skiing legend Assured of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn underwent a titanium prosthesis placed in her right knee during her time away from alpine racing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, following claiming a podium spot for the fourth time in five World Cup events.
The veteran athlete, who recently made history by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Competing at the iconic venue for the first time in almost a decade, Vonn crossed the line in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was just over a third of a second behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the first jump," Vonn said. "After that, I skied well. I'm pleased with my skiing today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This performance was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere during the event, having also finished third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn stepped away from competition in February 2019 as a result of ongoing knee problems. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are highly promising.
She already possesses an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"In Cortina, I will be fully ready," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four World Cup titles she has secured over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This current World Cup circuit includes a nine more events scheduled before the season finals in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
