The skiing legend Confident of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn underwent a surgical implant installed in her right knee during her hiatus from alpine racing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, after earning a top-three finish 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, finished third in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Competing at the French Alps resort for the first occasion in almost a decade, Vonn crossed the line in a time of 1:20.60. She was 0.36 seconds 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 first jump," Vonn said. "After that, I skied well. I'm happy with my skiing today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was overly cautious."
This result was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also claimed bronze in the downhill on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn stepped away from competition in early 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she staged a competitive comeback in late 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With just over six weeks remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's form are timely.
She already possesses one gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the next Olympics.
"In 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 accumulated over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the top of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This current World Cup circuit includes a total of nine races scheduled before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.
