Lindsey Vonn Optimistic of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn had a artificial joint installed in her right knee during her hiatus from alpine racing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "perfectly prepared" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, on the back of claiming a place on the rostrum for the fourth time in five World Cup competitions.
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 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Impressive Performance 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," the skier commented. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm satisfied with my skiing today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This result was her second podium at Val d'Isere during the event, having also taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn stepped away from competition in February 2019 because of ongoing knee problems. However, she made a stunning return in late 2024 after a significant orthopedic procedure.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are highly promising.
She already possesses one gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the next Olympics.
"In Cortina, I will be fully ready," Vonn affirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has accumulated over a career spanning two decades.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup campaign includes a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
