The American champion Optimistic of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier had a titanium prosthesis fitted to her right knee during her hiatus from alpine racing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after securing a place on the rostrum for the fourth time in five World Cup events.
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 one hundred and forty-second career World Cup podium finish.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Competing at the French Alps resort for the first time in almost a decade, Vonn crossed the line in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was just over a third of a second behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the initial jump," the skier commented. "Subsequently, I performed strongly. I'm pleased with my performance 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 during the event, having also taken third in the downhill on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn stepped away from competition in February 2019 because of persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 following a partial knee replacement.
With less than two months remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She boasts one gold and two bronze medals from previous Games 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
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has won over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is sitting in fifth place in the overall super-G standings.
This current World Cup circuit features a nine more events taking place before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
