The American champion Optimistic of Being 'in a good place' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a titanium prosthesis installed in her right knee during her break from alpine racing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after earning a top-three finish for the fourth instance in five World Cup events.
The veteran athlete, who achieved a milestone 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.
Impressive Performance in the French Alps
Racing in the French Alps resort for the first occasion 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 the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the first jump," the skier commented. "Subsequently, I performed strongly. I'm happy with my run today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This performance was her second podium at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also finished third in the downhill race on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Injury
Vonn officially retired in February 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she staged a competitive comeback in late 2024 following a partial knee replacement.
With 47 days remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are set to run from February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She has an Olympic gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be fully ready," 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 secured over a career spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the summit 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 nine more events taking place before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.