The American champion Assured of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn underwent a surgical implant placed in her right knee during her break from the sport.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in a good place" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, on the back of claiming a place on the rostrum for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup competitions.
The veteran athlete, who recently made history by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super-G 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 almost a decade, Vonn crossed the line 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 didn't quite have the right line on the initial jump," the skier commented. "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 not aggressive enough."
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 early 2019 because of persistent injuries. However, she returned to racing in December 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With less than two months remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are timely.
She already possesses one gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"In Cortina, I will be where I need to be," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has won over a professional journey 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 super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup circuit features a total of nine races taking place before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
