The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn underwent a titanium prosthesis fitted to her right knee during her hiatus from alpine racing.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, following earning a place on the rostrum for the fourth time in five World Cup events.
The 41-year-old, who last week set a record by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Racing in the French Alps resort for the first time 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 didn't quite have the right line on the initial jump," Vonn remarked. "After that, I performed strongly. I'm satisfied with my skiing today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was overly cautious."
This result 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 early 2019 because of ongoing knee problems. However, she staged a competitive comeback in late 2024 after a partial knee replacement.
With just over six weeks remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are timely.
She already possesses an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be in a good place," Vonn affirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four World Cup titles she has accumulated over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This current World Cup circuit features a nine more events taking place before the season finals in Norway on 21 March 2026.
