The American champion Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn underwent a titanium prosthesis fitted to her right knee throughout her break from the sport.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in a good place" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, following earning a top-three finish for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup races.
The 41-year-old, who recently made history by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, took the bronze position in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup top-three result.
Impressive Performance in the French Alps
Returning to the French Alps resort for the first occasion in almost a decade, Vonn finished the course in a time of 1:20.60. She was 0.36 seconds behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking the runner-up spot.
"I was slightly lacking enough direction on the initial jump," the skier commented. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm satisfied with my performance today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This performance was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere during the event, having also taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn ended her career in early 2019 because of ongoing knee problems. However, she staged a competitive comeback in December 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With less than two months remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She boasts one gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"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 overall crystal globes she has won over a career spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup circuit features a nine more events scheduled before the season finals in Norway on 21 March 2026.
