Lindsey Vonn Confident of Being 'perfectly positioned' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
Vonn had a surgical implant placed in her right knee throughout her hiatus from the sport.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn states she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of earning a place on the rostrum for the fourth instance in five World Cup races.
The veteran athlete, who achieved a milestone by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, took the bronze position in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Competing at the iconic venue for the first occasion 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 victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking the runner-up spot.
"I was slightly lacking the right line on the initial jump," Vonn remarked. "After that, I skied well. I'm satisfied with my run today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This result was her second podium at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn officially retired in early 2019 because of ongoing knee problems. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's form are highly promising.
She already possesses one gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"At the Olympics, I will be where I need to be," Vonn affirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
Alongside her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has accumulated over a career spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This current World Cup circuit features a total of nine races scheduled before the circuit finale in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
