Lindsey Vonn Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
Vonn underwent a titanium prosthesis placed in her right knee throughout her hiatus from the sport.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn states she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, after securing a podium spot for the fourth time in her last five World Cup competitions.
The 41-year-old, 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 one hundred and forty-second career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Racing in the French Alps resort for the first occasion 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 securing second place.
"I was slightly lacking enough direction on the first jump," Vonn remarked. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm satisfied with my skiing today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This result was her second podium at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also claimed bronze in the downhill on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in late 2024 after a partial knee replacement.
With 47 days remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are timely.
She has an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the next Olympics.
"At the Olympics, I will be fully ready," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has secured over a career spanning 20 years.
She presently enjoys a 69-point 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 campaign features a total of nine races scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
