The American champion Optimistic of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn underwent a surgical implant placed in her right knee throughout her hiatus from the sport.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, after claiming a top-three finish for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup events.
The veteran athlete, who recently made history by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Racing in the iconic venue for the first time 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 the right line on the first jump," Vonn said. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm satisfied with my performance today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was overly cautious."
This performance was her second podium at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also taken third in the downhill on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn officially retired in early 2019 because of persistent injuries. However, she returned to racing in December 2024 after a partial knee replacement.
With 47 days remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are set to run from February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She has one gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"At the Olympics, I will be in a good place," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has won over a career spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup circuit includes a total of nine races scheduled before the season finals in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
