The American champion Assured of Being 'perfectly positioned' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a artificial joint placed in her right knee during her time away from competitive skiing.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn states she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of securing a place on the rostrum for the fourth instance in 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 represented her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Impressive Performance in the French Alps
Returning to the iconic venue for the first time in eight years, Vonn finished the course in a time of 1:20.60. She was 0.36 seconds behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing the runner-up spot.
"I was slightly lacking the right line on the initial jump," Vonn said. "After that, I skied well. I'm pleased with my run today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
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.
An Incredible Return from Injury
Vonn officially retired in early 2019 as a result of ongoing knee problems. However, she returned to racing in December 2024 after a partial knee replacement.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She already possesses an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"In Cortina, 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 World Cup titles she has accumulated over a career spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This current World Cup circuit includes a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.
