Lindsey Vonn Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Vonn had a surgical implant placed in her right knee during her break from alpine racing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of claiming a podium spot for the fourth time in five World Cup competitions.
The veteran athlete, who recently made history by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup top-three result.
Impressive Performance in the French Alps
Competing at the iconic venue 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 victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing second place.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the first jump," the skier commented. "After that, I performed strongly. I'm pleased with my run today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This result 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 officially retired in February 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she staged a competitive comeback in late 2024 after a partial knee replacement.
With less than two months remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are timely.
She already possesses an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the next Olympics.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be where I need to be," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
Alongside her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four World Cup titles she has secured over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This current World Cup campaign includes a total of nine races scheduled before the circuit finale in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
