The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'in prime form' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a surgical implant placed in her right knee during her time away from competitive skiing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "perfectly prepared" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after securing a podium spot for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup events.
The 41-year-old, who achieved a milestone by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Impressive Performance in the French Alps
Racing in the iconic venue for the first occasion in almost a decade, 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 securing the runner-up spot.
"I was slightly lacking the right line on the initial jump," Vonn remarked. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm pleased with my skiing today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This performance was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also finished third in the downhill race on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Injury
Vonn officially retired in February 2019 as a result of ongoing knee problems. However, she staged a competitive comeback in late 2024 after a significant orthopedic procedure.
With 47 days remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She has one gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"At the Olympics, I will be in a good place," 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 accumulated over a career spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the overall super-G standings.
This current World Cup circuit includes a nine more events taking place before the season finals in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
