The American champion Optimistic of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a artificial joint fitted to her right knee throughout her hiatus from the sport.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn states she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, following earning a podium spot for the fourth instance 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 giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Racing in the French Alps resort for the first occasion 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 was slightly lacking enough direction on the first jump," Vonn remarked. "After that, I skied well. I'm happy with my run today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This performance was her second podium at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also claimed bronze in the downhill on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn ended her career in early 2019 as a result of ongoing knee problems. However, she made a stunning return 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 6-22 February, Vonn's form are timely.
She has one gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"At the Olympics, 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 overall crystal globes she has accumulated over a career spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the top of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup circuit features a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.
