Lindsey Vonn Assured of Being 'in prime form' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a artificial joint placed in her right knee during her time away from alpine racing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn states she will be "perfectly prepared" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after securing a place on the rostrum for the fourth time in five World Cup races.
The 41-year-old, who recently made history by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, took the bronze position in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup podium finish.
Impressive Performance in the French Alps
Returning to the French Alps resort for the first occasion 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 winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing second place.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the initial jump," the skier commented. "From that point on, I skied well. I'm happy with my performance 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 on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn officially retired 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 47 days remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are highly promising.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be fully ready," Vonn affirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
Alongside her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has won over a career spanning 20 years.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the top of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This current World Cup campaign includes a total of nine races taking place before the circuit finale in Norway on 21 March 2026.