The American champion Assured of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a artificial joint installed in her right knee throughout her break from competitive skiing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, on the back of earning a top-three finish for the fourth time in five World Cup events.
The veteran athlete, who achieved a milestone by becoming the most senior racer to win a 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 top-three result.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Returning to the French Alps resort for the first time in eight years, 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 taking the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have the right line on the initial jump," Vonn remarked. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm happy with my performance today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was overly cautious."
This result 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 Retirement
Vonn ended her career in early 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 following a partial knee replacement.
With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's form are highly promising.
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," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has won over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup campaign includes a nine more events scheduled before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
