Lindsey Vonn Optimistic of Being 'in prime form' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
Vonn underwent a artificial joint placed in her right knee throughout her time away from competitive skiing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, on the back of securing a top-three finish for the fourth instance in five World Cup races.
The 41-year-old, who achieved a milestone by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Competing at the iconic venue for the first occasion in eight years, Vonn finished the course 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 taking the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the initial jump," Vonn remarked. "From that point on, I skied well. I'm pleased with my performance today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This performance was her second podium at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also finished third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 because of persistent injuries. However, she staged a competitive comeback in late 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 one gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the next Olympics.
"At the Olympics, I will be fully ready," Vonn affirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
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 top of the downhill World Cup rankings 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.