Lindsey Vonn Confident of Being 'in prime form' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn underwent a surgical implant placed in her right knee during her hiatus from alpine racing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in a good place" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, on the back of securing a podium spot for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup events.
The 41-year-old, who achieved a milestone by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup podium finish.
Impressive Performance in the French Alps
Competing at the iconic venue for the first occasion in eight years, Vonn crossed the line in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was 0.36 seconds behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have the right line on the first jump," Vonn remarked. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm pleased with my performance today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was overly cautious."
This performance was her second podium at Val d'Isere during the event, having also finished third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn officially retired in early 2019 due to ongoing knee problems. However, she made a stunning return in late 2024 following a partial knee replacement.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She has one gold and two 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.
Aiming for Further Glory
Alongside her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes 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 sitting in fifth place in the overall super-G standings.
This current World Cup campaign includes a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
