The skiing legend Assured of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier had a surgical implant fitted to her right knee throughout her break from competitive skiing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in a good place" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, on the back of claiming a top-three finish for the fourth time in her last five World Cup races.
The 41-year-old, who recently made history by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Returning to the French Alps resort for the first occasion in almost a decade, Vonn crossed the line 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 securing the runner-up spot.
"I was slightly lacking the right line on the first jump," Vonn remarked. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm satisfied with my skiing 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 claimed bronze in the downhill on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn ended her career in early 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she returned to racing in December 2024 following a partial knee replacement.
With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are timely.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be where I need to be," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
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 substantial lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup circuit features a total of nine races taking place before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.