The skiing legend Assured of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn had a titanium prosthesis fitted to her right knee throughout her time away from competitive skiing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in a good place" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after claiming a podium spot for the fourth instance 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 giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Competing at the French Alps resort for the first occasion in almost a decade, Vonn crossed the line 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 enough direction on the initial jump," Vonn remarked. "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 podium at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn officially retired in early 2019 as a result of ongoing knee problems. However, she made a stunning return in late 2024 after a major knee surgery.
With less than two months remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are timely.
She already possesses one gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be where I need to be," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
Alongside her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has accumulated over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the top of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup campaign includes a total of nine races taking place before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.
