The skiing legend Assured of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a artificial joint placed in her right knee during her hiatus from competitive skiing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, following securing a podium spot for the fourth time in 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 giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Racing in the French Alps resort for the first time in almost a decade, Vonn finished the course 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 securing second place.
"I was slightly lacking the right line on the initial jump," Vonn said. "After that, I skied well. I'm satisfied with my performance today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This result was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also claimed bronze in the downhill race on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Injury
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 because of ongoing knee problems. However, she returned to racing in December 2024 after a major knee surgery.
With less than two months remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's form are timely.
She already possesses an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the next Olympics.
"At the Olympics, I will be where I need to be," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has won over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup campaign features a total of nine races taking place before the circuit finale in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
