Lindsey Vonn Assured of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier had a surgical implant installed in her right knee during her hiatus from alpine racing.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn states she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, after earning a top-three finish for the fourth time in her last five World Cup races.
The 41-year-old, who recently made history by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, took the bronze position in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Competing at the iconic venue for the first time in eight years, Vonn crossed the line in a time of 1:20.60. She was just over a third of a second behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have the right line on the initial jump," Vonn remarked. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm happy with my run today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was overly cautious."
This result was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere during the event, having also claimed bronze in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn ended her career in early 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in late 2024 following a partial knee replacement.
With less than two months remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She already possesses one gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the next Olympics.
"In Cortina, I will be where I need to be," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
Alongside her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has accumulated over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup campaign features a total of nine races taking place before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.
