The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'in a good place' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
Vonn had a titanium prosthesis installed in her right knee during her break from the sport.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "perfectly prepared" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, on the back of earning a place on the rostrum for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup races.
The veteran athlete, who achieved a milestone 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 was her 142nd 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 crossed the line in a time of 1:20.60. She was 0.36 seconds behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing the runner-up spot.
"I was slightly lacking the right line on the initial jump," the skier commented. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm satisfied with my skiing today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was overly cautious."
This performance was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere during the event, having also taken third in the downhill on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Injury
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she staged a competitive comeback 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 form are highly promising.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"At the Olympics, I will be fully ready," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four World Cup titles she has accumulated over a career spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup circuit features a total of nine races scheduled before the circuit finale in Norway on 21 March 2026.
