Lindsey Vonn Confident of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Vonn underwent a surgical implant installed in her right knee during her time away from the sport.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "perfectly prepared" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after earning a place on the rostrum for the fourth instance in five World Cup races.
The 41-year-old, who last week set a record by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Competing at the iconic venue for the first time in almost a decade, Vonn crossed the line in a time of 1:20.60. She was just over a third of a second behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking the runner-up spot.
"I was slightly lacking enough direction on the first jump," Vonn said. "From that point on, I performed strongly. 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 taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn stepped away from competition in February 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 following a partial knee replacement.
With less than two months remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's form are highly promising.
She has an Olympic gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"In Cortina, I will be in a good place," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to 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 overall downhill standings and is sitting in fifth place in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup campaign includes a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
