The skiing legend Confident of Being 'in prime form' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn had a artificial joint fitted to her right knee throughout her time away from the sport.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, following claiming a podium spot for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup competitions.
The veteran athlete, who achieved a milestone by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
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 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 didn't quite have the right line on the initial jump," the skier commented. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm pleased with my run today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was overly cautious."
This result was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere during the event, having also finished third in the downhill race on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn stepped away from competition in early 2019 due to ongoing knee problems. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 following a major knee surgery.
With 47 days remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are set to run from February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are timely.
She has an Olympic gold and two Olympic 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 hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has secured over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She currently holds 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 includes a total of nine races scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.
