The American champion Assured of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn had a titanium prosthesis installed in her right knee during her break from competitive skiing.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in a good place" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of securing a podium spot for the fourth instance in five World Cup races.
The 41-year-old, 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 was her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup podium finish.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Racing in the French Alps resort for the first time 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 victor 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," the skier commented. "Subsequently, I performed strongly. I'm happy with my performance today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This result was her second podium at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn stepped away from competition in February 2019 because of persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in late 2024 after a significant orthopedic procedure.
With 47 days remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are timely.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"At the Olympics, I will be fully ready," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has secured over a career spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup circuit features a nine more events scheduled before the season finals in Norway on 21 March 2026.