Lindsey Vonn Optimistic of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Vonn had a surgical implant installed in her right knee during her hiatus from the sport.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, following earning a place on the rostrum for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup races.
The 41-year-old, who last week set a record 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.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Competing at the French Alps resort for the first time in eight years, Vonn crossed the line in a time of 1:20.60. She was 0.36 seconds behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing second place.
"I was slightly lacking enough direction on the first jump," Vonn remarked. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm happy with my run today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This result was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also taken third in the downhill on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn stepped away from competition in February 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she staged a competitive comeback in late 2024 after a partial knee replacement.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are timely.
She boasts one gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"At the Olympics, I will be fully ready," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has secured over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the top 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 taking place before the circuit finale in Norway on 21 March 2026.
