The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn underwent a surgical implant fitted to her right knee throughout her break from alpine racing.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn states she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, after claiming a podium spot for the fourth time in five World Cup events.
The 41-year-old, who last week set a record by becoming the most senior racer to win a 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 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 the runner-up spot.
"I was slightly lacking the right line on the initial jump," the skier commented. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm pleased with my performance today, unlike 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 finished third in the downhill race on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Injury
Vonn officially retired in early 2019 because of ongoing knee problems. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 following a partial knee replacement.
With less than two months remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are timely.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be where I need to be," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has secured 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 features a total of nine races scheduled before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
