Lindsey Vonn Optimistic of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn underwent a titanium prosthesis placed in her right knee during her time away from competitive skiing.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn states she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, following earning a top-three finish for the fourth instance in five World Cup competitions.
The veteran athlete, who recently made history by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Racing in the iconic venue for the first time in eight years, Vonn finished the course in a time of 1:20.60. 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 initial jump," the skier commented. "Subsequently, I performed strongly. I'm satisfied with my performance today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This performance was her second podium at Val d'Isere during the event, having also taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn ended her career in early 2019 because of ongoing knee problems. However, she returned to racing in December 2024 following a major knee surgery.
With less than two months remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are set to run from February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are highly promising.
She already possesses an Olympic gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be in a good place," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has won over a career spanning two decades.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup circuit includes a nine more events taking place before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
