The American champion Optimistic of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier had a artificial joint placed in her right knee throughout her hiatus from competitive skiing.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "perfectly prepared" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, following claiming a podium spot for the fourth time in five World Cup races.
The 41-year-old, who achieved a milestone by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup podium finish.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Racing in the iconic venue for the first occasion in eight years, Vonn crossed the line in a time of 1:20.60. She was just over a third of a second behind winner 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. "From that point on, I skied well. I'm pleased with my skiing 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 claimed bronze in the downhill on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn officially retired in early 2019 because of persistent injuries. However, she staged a competitive comeback in late 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With just over six weeks remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are set to run from February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are timely.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"At the Olympics, I will be fully ready," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has secured over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup campaign features a nine more events scheduled before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.
