Lindsey Vonn Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier had a surgical implant fitted to her right knee during her time away from the sport.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, on the back of securing a place on the rostrum for the fourth instance in five World Cup events.
The 41-year-old, who recently made history by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Competing at the iconic venue for the first occasion 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 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," Vonn said. "Subsequently, I performed strongly. I'm satisfied with my run 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 over the weekend, having also taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn ended her career in early 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she staged a competitive comeback in December 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With 47 days remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's form are timely.
She already possesses an Olympic gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"In Cortina, I will be fully ready," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
Alongside her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four World Cup titles she has won over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the top of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the overall super-G standings.
This current World Cup campaign includes a total of nine races taking place before the circuit finale in Norway on 21 March 2026.
