Lindsey Vonn Assured of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier had a surgical implant installed in her right knee throughout her break from competitive skiing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, after earning a top-three finish for the fourth instance in five World Cup competitions.
The veteran athlete, who last week set a record 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 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Returning to the French Alps resort for the first time in almost a decade, Vonn finished the course 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 initial jump," Vonn remarked. "After that, I skied well. I'm satisfied with my performance today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This result was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also finished third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn officially retired in early 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in late 2024 following a major knee surgery.
With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are timely.
She already possesses one gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the next Olympics.
"At the Olympics, I will be where I need to be," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has accumulated over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the top of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth 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 21 March 2026.
