The skiing legend Confident of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn had a surgical implant installed in her right knee throughout her time away from the sport.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in a good place" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, on the back of securing a place on the rostrum for the fourth time in her last five World Cup races.
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 was her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Returning to the French Alps resort for the first time in almost a decade, Vonn finished the course in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was just over a third of a second behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking second place.
"I was slightly lacking enough direction on the initial jump," Vonn remarked. "After that, I performed strongly. I'm pleased with my skiing today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This result was her second podium at Val d'Isere during the event, having also taken third 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 made a stunning return in December 2024 following 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 highly promising.
She already possesses an Olympic gold and two 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 fully ready," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has accumulated over a career spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the top of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the overall super-G standings.
This current World Cup circuit includes a total of nine races scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
