The skiing legend Confident of Being 'perfectly positioned' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a surgical implant installed in her right knee throughout her break from competitive skiing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "perfectly prepared" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after earning 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 oldest downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
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 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 was slightly lacking the right line on the first jump," Vonn said. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm satisfied with my performance today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This performance was her second podium at Val d'Isere during the event, having also finished third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she returned to racing in late 2024 following a major knee surgery.
With less than two months remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are timely.
She has one gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned 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 World Cup titles she has won over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the top of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup campaign features a total of nine races taking place before the season finals in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
