The skiing legend Assured of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier had a titanium prosthesis placed in her right knee throughout her break from competitive skiing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after claiming a top-three finish for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup events.
The 41-year-old, who achieved a milestone by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return 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 one minute 20.60 seconds. She was just over a third of a second behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing second place.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the initial jump," Vonn remarked. "After that, I skied well. I'm pleased with my skiing today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This performance was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere during the event, having also claimed bronze in the downhill race on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn stepped away from competition in February 2019 due to ongoing knee problems. However, she returned to racing in December 2024 after a major knee surgery.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are timely.
She already possesses an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"At the Olympics, I will be in a good place," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has secured over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup circuit features a total of nine races taking place before the season finals in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
