The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn had a artificial joint installed in her right knee throughout her hiatus from the sport.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "perfectly prepared" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after securing a top-three finish for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup events.
The 41-year-old, who last week set a record by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, took the bronze position in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup top-three result.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Returning to the French Alps resort for the first occasion in eight years, Vonn crossed the line 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 second place.
"I didn't quite have the right line on the first jump," Vonn said. "After that, I performed strongly. I'm satisfied 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 top-three finish at Val d'Isere during the event, having also taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn stepped away from competition in February 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in late 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's form are timely.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be in a good place," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
Alongside her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four World Cup titles she has secured over a career spanning 20 years.
She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup campaign includes a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
