Lindsey Vonn Assured of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a artificial joint placed in her right knee throughout her time away from the sport.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, following earning a place on the rostrum for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup events.
The 41-year-old, who recently made history by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup podium finish.
Impressive Performance in the French Alps
Competing at the French Alps resort for the first time in eight years, Vonn finished the course in a time of 1:20.60. She was 0.36 seconds behind winner 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," Vonn remarked. "After that, I skied well. I'm pleased with my performance today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This performance was her second podium at Val d'Isere during the event, having also finished third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn officially retired in February 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 after a significant orthopedic procedure.
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 Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"At the Olympics, I will be where I need to be," Vonn affirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has won over a career spanning two decades.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the top of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup campaign features a total of nine races taking place before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.