Lindsey Vonn Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a surgical implant fitted to her right knee throughout her hiatus from competitive skiing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn states she will be "perfectly prepared" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after claiming a podium spot for the fourth time in five World Cup competitions.
The 41-year-old, who last week set a record by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Returning to the French Alps resort 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 victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing second place.
"I didn't quite have the right line on the initial jump," Vonn said. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm pleased with my run today, unlike 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.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn stepped away from competition in early 2019 because of ongoing knee problems. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 after a partial knee replacement.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She boasts one gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"At the Olympics, I will be in a good place," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four World Cup titles she has won over a career spanning two decades.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This current World Cup campaign features a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.