The skiing legend Assured of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Vonn had a surgical implant fitted to her right knee throughout her time away from competitive skiing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, following securing a place on the rostrum for the fourth instance in five World Cup events.
The veteran athlete, 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 one hundred and forty-second career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Competing at the iconic venue for the first time in eight years, Vonn finished the course in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was 0.36 seconds behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking the runner-up spot.
"I was slightly lacking enough direction on the first jump," the skier commented. "Subsequently, I performed strongly. I'm happy with my run today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This performance was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Injury
Vonn stepped away from competition in February 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 after a significant orthopedic procedure.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are highly promising.
She boasts one gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"In Cortina, I will be where I need to be," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has won over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup campaign includes a nine more events scheduled before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.
