Lindsey Vonn Optimistic of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn underwent a artificial joint placed in her right knee during her break from the sport.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, on the back of earning a top-three finish for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup events.
The 41-year-old, who achieved a milestone by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, came in third place 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 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 initial jump," Vonn said. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm pleased with my skiing 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 claimed bronze in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn stepped away from competition in early 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 following a major knee surgery.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She already possesses one gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"In Cortina, I will be in a good place," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has secured over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She currently holds 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 circuit features a total of nine races taking place before the circuit finale in Norway on 21 March 2026.