The skiing legend Assured of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier had a artificial joint installed in her right knee during her time away from the sport.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn states she will be "perfectly prepared" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, on the back of securing a place on the rostrum for the fourth instance in five World Cup races.
The 41-year-old, who recently made history by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented 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 finished the course in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was 0.36 seconds behind winner 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 said. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm pleased with my performance today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This result 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 ended her career in early 2019 as a result of ongoing knee problems. However, she staged a competitive comeback in December 2024 following a partial knee replacement.
With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are timely.
She has one gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"At the Olympics, I will be in a good place," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has accumulated over a career spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup campaign features a nine more events taking place before the season finals in Norway on 21 March 2026.
