Lindsey Vonn Confident of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a surgical implant installed in her right knee during her hiatus from alpine racing.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of claiming a podium spot for the fourth time in five World Cup events.
The 41-year-old, who achieved a milestone 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.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Competing at the French Alps resort for the first occasion in almost a decade, Vonn crossed the line in a time of 1:20.60. She was 0.36 seconds behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking the runner-up spot.
"I was slightly lacking enough direction on the first jump," Vonn said. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm satisfied with my run today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This performance was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn stepped away from competition in February 2019 due to ongoing knee problems. However, she returned to racing in late 2024 following a partial knee replacement.
With 47 days remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's form are timely.
She has an Olympic gold and two Olympic 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 fully ready," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
Alongside her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has secured over a career spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup campaign features a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
