Lindsey Vonn Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn had a titanium prosthesis fitted to her right knee throughout her break from the sport.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn states she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, after claiming a place on the rostrum for the fourth time in her last five World Cup competitions.
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 the French Alps
Racing in the French Alps resort for the first time in eight years, Vonn crossed the line in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was 0.36 seconds 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 initial jump," Vonn said. "After that, I skied well. I'm satisfied with my run today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This result was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also finished third in the downhill on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn stepped away from competition in early 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she returned to racing in December 2024 following a major knee surgery.
With 47 days remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be fully ready," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has accumulated over a career spanning 20 years.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup circuit includes a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.
