The American champion Optimistic of Being 'in prime form' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
The veteran skier had a titanium prosthesis placed in her right knee during her hiatus from alpine racing.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in a good place" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, following earning a place on the rostrum for the fourth instance in five World Cup events.
The 41-year-old, who achieved a milestone by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her 142nd 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 crossed the line in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was just over a third of a second behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing second place.
"I was slightly lacking the right line on the initial jump," Vonn remarked. "After that, 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 over the weekend, having also taken third in the downhill on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn stepped away from competition in February 2019 due to ongoing knee problems. However, she staged a competitive comeback in December 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With just over six weeks remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are timely.
She has an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be in a good place," Vonn affirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
Alongside her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has accumulated over a career spanning 20 years.
She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup circuit includes a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
