The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn underwent a artificial joint placed in her right knee during her break from the sport.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in a good place" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after earning a place on the rostrum for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup events.
The 41-year-old, who achieved a milestone by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Returning to 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 victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing second place.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the first jump," Vonn remarked. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm happy with my run today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This performance was her second podium at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn officially retired in early 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in late 2024 following a partial knee replacement.
With less than two months remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's form are timely.
She already possesses one gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be fully ready," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has secured over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the summit 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 scheduled before the season finals in Norway on 21 March 2026.
