The American champion Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn underwent a artificial joint fitted to her right knee during her hiatus from the sport.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in a good place" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of securing a podium spot for the fourth time in five World Cup events.
The veteran athlete, who recently made history by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, took the bronze position in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Racing in the French Alps resort for the first time in eight years, Vonn finished the course in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was 0.36 seconds behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the first jump," the skier commented. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm happy with my skiing today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This result was her second podium at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also finished third in the downhill on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Injury
Vonn ended her career in early 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 after a significant orthopedic procedure.
With just over six weeks remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are timely.
She boasts one gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the next Olympics.
"In Cortina, I will be where I need to be," Vonn affirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has secured over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the top of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup campaign includes a total of nine races scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.
