The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'in prime form' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn underwent a titanium prosthesis fitted to her right knee throughout her hiatus from alpine racing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, on the back of securing a top-three finish for the fourth time in her last five World Cup races.
The veteran athlete, who last week set a record by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Returning to the French Alps resort for the first occasion 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 taking the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have the right line on the first jump," the skier commented. "After that, I skied well. I'm pleased with my skiing 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 during the event, having also finished third in the downhill on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn officially retired in February 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 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She already possesses an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"At the Olympics, I will be in a good place," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has won over a career spanning two decades.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup circuit includes a nine more events taking place before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
