The skiing legend Confident of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn underwent a surgical implant fitted to her right knee during her hiatus from competitive skiing.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "perfectly prepared" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after claiming a place on the rostrum for the fourth time 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-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup podium finish.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Competing at the iconic venue for the first occasion in eight years, Vonn finished the course 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 didn't quite have enough direction on the initial jump," the skier commented. "From that point on, I skied well. I'm pleased with my performance today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This performance was her second podium at Val d'Isere during the event, having also claimed bronze in the downhill race on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Injury
Vonn stepped away from competition in early 2019 because of ongoing knee problems. However, she made a stunning return in late 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With just over six weeks remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are highly promising.
She already possesses an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be where I need to be," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has accumulated over a career spanning two decades.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup circuit features a nine more events taking place before the season finals in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
