The American champion Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn underwent a titanium prosthesis installed in her right knee throughout her break from the sport.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "perfectly prepared" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, on the back of earning a top-three finish for the fourth time in five World Cup competitions.
The 41-year-old, who recently made history by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, took the bronze position in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Competing at the iconic venue for the first occasion in eight years, Vonn crossed the line 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 initial jump," Vonn said. "From that point on, I skied well. I'm pleased with my performance 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 on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn stepped away from competition in early 2019 due to ongoing knee problems. However, she staged a competitive comeback in December 2024 after a major knee surgery.
With 47 days remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are set to run from February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are timely.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be where I need to be," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has won over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup circuit includes a nine more events taking place before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.