Lindsey Vonn Optimistic of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a artificial joint placed in her right knee throughout her hiatus from alpine racing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of earning a place on the rostrum for the fourth time in her last five World Cup races.
The 41-year-old, who last week set a record by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super-G 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
Returning to the French Alps resort for the first time in eight years, Vonn finished the course in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was 0.36 seconds behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking second place.
"I was slightly lacking enough direction on the first jump," Vonn remarked. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm satisfied with my skiing today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This performance was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere during the event, having also claimed bronze in the downhill on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn officially retired in February 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she returned to racing in December 2024 following a partial knee replacement.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's form are highly promising.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the next Olympics.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be in a good place," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
Alongside her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has accumulated over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the top 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 scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.