Lindsey Vonn Assured of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Vonn underwent a surgical implant installed in her right knee during her hiatus from the sport.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in a good place" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of earning a podium spot for the fourth time in her last five World Cup races.
The 41-year-old, who last week set a record by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Competing at the iconic venue for the first time in eight years, Vonn crossed the line in a time of 1:20.60. She was just over a third of a second behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking second place.
"I didn't quite have the right line on the first jump," Vonn said. "After that, 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 claimed bronze in the downhill on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn stepped away from competition in February 2019 because of persistent injuries. However, she staged a competitive comeback in December 2024 following a partial knee replacement.
With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She has one gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"In Cortina, I will be where I need to be," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has accumulated over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup campaign features a total of nine races scheduled before the season finals in Norway on 21 March 2026.
