The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a surgical implant installed in her right knee during her time away from competitive skiing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in a good place" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, after earning a top-three finish for the fourth instance in five World Cup races.
The 41-year-old, who recently made history by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Returning to the French Alps resort for the first occasion in eight years, Vonn finished the course in a time of 1:20.60. She was just over a third of a second behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking second place.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the initial jump," the skier commented. "After that, I skied well. I'm pleased with my performance today, unlike 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 during the event, having also claimed bronze in the downhill on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn officially retired in early 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she staged a competitive comeback in December 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With less than two months remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are timely.
She boasts one gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"At the Olympics, 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 overall crystal globes she has accumulated over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup circuit includes a nine more events taking place before the season finals in Norway on 21 March 2026.