The American champion Confident of Being 'in a good place' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a surgical implant installed in her right knee during her break from competitive skiing.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in a good place" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of earning a podium spot for the fourth time in her last five World Cup events.
The veteran athlete, who achieved a milestone by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Impressive Performance in the French Alps
Racing in the French Alps resort for the first time in eight years, Vonn crossed the line in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was 0.36 seconds behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing second place.
"I didn't quite have the right line on the initial jump," Vonn said. "From that point on, I skied well. I'm satisfied with my run today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This result was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere during the event, having also finished third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 because of persistent injuries. However, she returned to racing in late 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for 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 firmly on track to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be fully ready," Vonn affirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has accumulated over a career spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the overall super-G standings.
This current World Cup campaign includes a total of nine races scheduled before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
