The American champion Optimistic of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Vonn had a titanium prosthesis installed in her right knee during her time away from alpine racing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "perfectly prepared" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, on the back of claiming a podium spot for the fourth time in five World Cup events.
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 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 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 the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the first jump," Vonn remarked. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm happy with my run 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 taken third in the downhill on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 because of persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in late 2024 following a major knee surgery.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are timely.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"At the Olympics, I will be fully ready," Vonn affirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Games aspirations, 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 downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup circuit includes a nine more events taking place before the season finals in Norway on 21 March 2026.
