The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Vonn had a surgical implant placed in her right knee throughout her hiatus from competitive skiing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn states she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, after earning a place on the rostrum for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup competitions.
The 41-year-old, who recently made history 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 was her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Racing in the French Alps resort for the first occasion 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 victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing the runner-up spot.
"I was slightly lacking enough direction on the initial jump," the skier commented. "After that, I skied well. I'm pleased with my run 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 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 returned to racing in late 2024 following a partial knee replacement.
With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are highly promising.
She has an Olympic gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be fully ready," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has won over a career spanning two decades.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup circuit includes a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
