The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'in prime form' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
The veteran skier had a artificial joint placed in her right knee throughout her break from alpine racing.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after claiming a top-three finish for the fourth time in her last five World Cup events.
The 41-year-old, 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 represented her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup podium finish.
Impressive Performance in the French Alps
Competing at 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 0.36 seconds 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 first jump," Vonn remarked. "Subsequently, 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 podium at Val d'Isere during the event, having also taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn stepped away from competition in February 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she returned to racing in December 2024 after 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 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.
"In Cortina, I will be in a good place," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four World Cup titles she has secured over a career spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup campaign features a total of nine races scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.
