The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn had a titanium prosthesis fitted to her right knee during her time away from the sport.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn states she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, after claiming a place on the rostrum for the fourth time in five World Cup races.
The veteran athlete, who recently made history by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, took the bronze position in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup top-three result.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Racing in the French Alps resort for the first time in almost a decade, Vonn finished the course 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 securing second place.
"I was slightly lacking the right line on the first jump," Vonn remarked. "After that, I skied well. I'm satisfied with my performance 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 finished third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn officially retired in February 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she staged a competitive comeback in late 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With 47 days remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's form are timely.
She has one gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be fully ready," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has secured over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup circuit includes a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Norway on 21 March 2026.