The American champion Assured of Being 'in a good place' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn underwent a artificial joint placed in her right knee during her hiatus from competitive skiing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of claiming a podium spot for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup competitions.
The 41-year-old, who recently made history by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Competing at the iconic venue 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 taking second place.
"I was slightly lacking enough direction on the initial jump," the skier commented. "From that point on, I skied well. I'm happy with my skiing today, unlike 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 Injury
Vonn stepped away from competition in February 2019 because of persistent injuries. However, she returned to racing in late 2024 after a major knee surgery.
With less than two months remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are timely.
She already possesses one gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"In Cortina, 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 World Cup titles she has accumulated over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings and is sitting in fifth place in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup campaign includes a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Norway on 21 March 2026.
