The American champion Optimistic of Being 'in a good place' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn underwent a artificial joint placed in her right knee during her hiatus from competitive skiing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "perfectly prepared" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after securing a place on the rostrum for the fourth time in five World Cup competitions.
The veteran athlete, 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 was her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Returning to the French Alps resort for the first time in almost a decade, Vonn finished the course 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 second place.
"I was slightly lacking the right line on the initial jump," Vonn remarked. "Subsequently, I performed strongly. I'm pleased with my skiing today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was overly cautious."
This performance was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also finished third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn ended her career in early 2019 because of persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in late 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With 47 days remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are timely.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"In Cortina, I will be fully ready," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has secured over a career spanning 20 years.
She presently enjoys a substantial 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 total of nine races taking place before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.
