Lindsey Vonn Optimistic of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a artificial joint fitted to her right knee during her break from alpine racing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, following securing a top-three finish for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup competitions.
The veteran athlete, who achieved a milestone by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Returning to the iconic venue for the first occasion in eight years, 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 second place.
"I was slightly lacking enough direction on the initial jump," Vonn said. "Subsequently, I performed strongly. I'm happy with my skiing today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This performance was her second podium at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also claimed bronze in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she staged a competitive comeback in December 2024 following a major knee surgery.
With just over six weeks remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's form are timely.
She has one gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the next Olympics.
"In Cortina, I will be in a good place," Vonn affirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has secured over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup campaign includes a nine more events taking place before the circuit finale in Norway on 21 March 2026.
