The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a surgical implant installed in her right knee during her hiatus from competitive skiing.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in a good place" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, following earning a place on the rostrum for the fourth time in five World Cup races.
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 marked her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Racing in the iconic venue for the first occasion 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 the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the initial jump," the skier commented. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm satisfied with my skiing today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This performance was her second podium at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also finished third in the downhill on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn stepped away from competition in February 2019 as a result of ongoing knee problems. However, she staged a competitive comeback in late 2024 following a major knee surgery.
With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's form are timely.
She has an Olympic gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"In Cortina, I will be where I need to be," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four World Cup titles she has won over a career spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the top of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup circuit includes a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
