Lindsey Vonn Optimistic of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Vonn underwent a surgical implant fitted to her right knee throughout her hiatus from competitive skiing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of claiming a place on the rostrum for the fourth time in her last five World Cup competitions.
The veteran athlete, who recently made history by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Competing at the French Alps resort for the first occasion in eight years, Vonn finished the course in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was 0.36 seconds behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking second place.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the first jump," Vonn remarked. "From that point on, I skied well. I'm pleased with my skiing today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was overly cautious."
This performance was her second podium at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Injury
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she staged a competitive comeback in late 2024 following a major knee surgery.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's form are highly promising.
She has an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"In Cortina, I will be in a good place," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four World Cup titles she has secured over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This current World Cup campaign includes a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
