Lindsey Vonn Assured of Being 'perfectly positioned' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
Vonn had a artificial joint placed in her right knee throughout her time away from alpine racing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, following securing a place on the rostrum for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup races.
The 41-year-old, who recently made history by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Returning to the iconic venue for the first time in almost a decade, Vonn finished the course in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was just over a third of a second behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have the right line on the initial jump," Vonn remarked. "After that, I performed strongly. I'm happy 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 claimed bronze in the downhill on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn ended her career in early 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she returned to racing in late 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She already possesses an Olympic gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"In Cortina, I will be fully ready," Vonn affirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has won over a career spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a 69-point 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 circuit includes a total of nine races taking place before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.
