The skiing legend Assured of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Vonn had a artificial joint placed in her right knee throughout her time away from alpine racing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn states 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 events.
The veteran athlete, who achieved a milestone by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, finished third 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 crossed the line in a time of 1:20.60. She was just over a third of a second behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the initial jump," the skier commented. "After that, I performed strongly. I'm satisfied with my run today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This performance was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere during the event, having also claimed bronze in the downhill on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Injury
Vonn ended her career in early 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 after a partial knee replacement.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are timely.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be where I need to be," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has secured over a career spanning two decades.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup circuit features a nine more events taking place before the circuit finale in Norway on March 21st, 2026.