The skiing legend Confident of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn underwent a titanium prosthesis placed in her right knee during her time away from the sport.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of claiming a place on the rostrum for the fourth time in her last five World Cup events.
The veteran athlete, who achieved a milestone by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, took the bronze position in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Returning to the French Alps resort for the first occasion in almost a decade, Vonn finished the course 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 securing the runner-up spot.
"I was slightly lacking enough direction on the first jump," the skier commented. "From that point on, I skied well. I'm happy with my run today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This result was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere during the event, having also finished third in the downhill on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn stepped away from competition in early 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she staged a competitive comeback in December 2024 following a partial knee replacement.
With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's form are highly promising.
She already possesses 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 where I need to be," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has won over a career spanning two decades.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup campaign includes a total of nine races taking place before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
