Lindsey Vonn Assured of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Vonn underwent a titanium prosthesis placed in her right knee throughout her hiatus from the sport.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in a good place" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, following earning a place on the rostrum for the fourth time in her last five World Cup competitions.
The veteran athlete, who recently made history by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, took the bronze position in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Competing at 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 taking the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the first jump," Vonn remarked. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm happy with my performance today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This result was her second podium at Val d'Isere during the event, having also claimed bronze in the downhill race on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn officially retired in early 2019 as a result of ongoing knee problems. However, she made a stunning return in late 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She has an Olympic gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be in a good place," Vonn affirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four World Cup titles she has secured over a career spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup circuit includes a nine more events taking place before the circuit finale in Norway on 21 March 2026.
