The American champion Optimistic of Being 'in prime form' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn underwent a surgical implant placed in her right knee during her break from competitive skiing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in a good place" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, following earning a top-three finish for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup competitions.
The 41-year-old, who last week set a record by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Impressive Performance in the French Alps
Competing at the iconic venue for the first occasion in eight years, Vonn finished the course in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was just over a third of a second behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have the right line on the initial jump," the skier commented. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm happy with my performance today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This result 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 Retirement
Vonn stepped away from competition in early 2019 because of ongoing knee problems. However, she returned to racing in December 2024 after a significant orthopedic procedure.
With less than two months remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She boasts one gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"At the Olympics, 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 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 super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup campaign includes a nine more events taking place before the season finals in Norway on 21 March 2026.
