Lindsey Vonn Optimistic of Being 'in prime form' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
Vonn underwent a artificial joint installed in her right knee during her time away from the sport.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of earning a place on the rostrum for the fourth time in five World Cup races.
The veteran athlete, who achieved a milestone by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, took the bronze position in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup top-three result.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Returning to the French Alps resort for the first time in almost a decade, Vonn crossed the line in a time of 1:20.60. She was 0.36 seconds behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking second place.
"I was slightly lacking the right line on the initial jump," the skier commented. "Subsequently, I performed strongly. I'm happy with my performance today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This performance was her second podium at Val d'Isere during the event, having also claimed bronze in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn officially retired in early 2019 as a result of ongoing knee problems. However, she staged a competitive comeback in December 2024 following a major knee surgery.
With less than two months remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are timely.
She already possesses one gold and two bronze medals in her collection 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," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has won over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup circuit includes a nine more events taking place before the season finals in Norway on March 21st, 2026.