The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a titanium prosthesis fitted to her right knee throughout her time away from competitive skiing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "perfectly prepared" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after earning a podium spot for the fourth time in 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 giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Returning to the iconic venue for the first occasion in almost a decade, 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 securing the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the initial jump," Vonn remarked. "Subsequently, I performed strongly. I'm pleased with my performance today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This result was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere during the event, having also taken third in the downhill on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn stepped away from competition in February 2019 because of ongoing knee problems. However, she staged a competitive comeback in December 2024 after a significant orthopedic procedure.
With just over six weeks remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are timely.
She has one gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the next Olympics.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be in a good place," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
Alongside her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four World Cup titles she has accumulated over a career spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the top of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup campaign includes a nine more events scheduled before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.
