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 during her break from competitive skiing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after claiming a place on the rostrum for the fourth instance in five World Cup competitions.
The 41-year-old, who last week set a record by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Competing at the iconic venue for the first time in almost a decade, Vonn crossed the line in a time of 1:20.60. She was just over a third of a second behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing second place.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the initial jump," the skier commented. "Subsequently, 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 performance was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn stepped away from competition in early 2019 because of persistent injuries. However, she returned to racing in December 2024 following a major knee surgery.
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 Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the next Olympics.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be in a good place," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four World Cup titles she has accumulated over a career spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup campaign features a nine more events taking place before the season finals in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
