Lindsey Vonn Assured of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn underwent a surgical implant installed in her right knee during her time away from competitive skiing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in a good place" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of securing a podium spot for the fourth instance in five World Cup events.
The veteran athlete, who achieved a milestone by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, took the bronze position in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup top-three result.
Impressive Performance in the French Alps
Racing in the French Alps resort for the first occasion in eight years, Vonn crossed the line in a time of 1:20.60. She was 0.36 seconds behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking the runner-up spot.
"I was slightly lacking the right line on the first jump," Vonn remarked. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm happy with my performance today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was overly cautious."
This performance was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also taken third in the downhill on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn stepped away from competition in early 2019 because of ongoing knee problems. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 after a partial knee replacement.
With less than two months 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 where I need to be," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has secured over a career spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings and is sitting in fifth place in the overall super-G standings.
This current World Cup circuit includes a nine more events taking place before the season finals in Norway on 21 March 2026.
