Lindsey Vonn Confident of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a titanium prosthesis installed in her right knee throughout her time away from alpine racing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn states she will be "perfectly prepared" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, following securing a podium spot for the fourth time in her last five World Cup races.
The 41-year-old, who recently made history by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Competing at the French Alps resort for the first time in eight years, Vonn finished the course in a time of 1:20.60. She was just over a third of a second behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have the right line on the initial jump," Vonn said. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm pleased with my skiing today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was overly cautious."
This performance was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also finished third in the downhill race on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 as a result of ongoing knee problems. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 after a significant orthopedic procedure.
With 47 days remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are set to run from February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are timely.
She boasts 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 in a good place," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has won over a career spanning 20 years.
She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is sitting in fifth place in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup campaign includes a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.