The American champion Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier had a surgical implant placed in her right knee throughout her break from the sport.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn states she will be "perfectly prepared" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after earning a place on the rostrum for the fourth time in five World Cup competitions.
The 41-year-old, who recently made history by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup podium finish.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Racing in the iconic venue for the first occasion in eight years, Vonn crossed the line in a time of 1:20.60. She was 0.36 seconds behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking second place.
"I didn't quite have the right line on the first jump," the skier commented. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm satisfied with my performance today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This performance was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also claimed bronze in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn officially retired in February 2019 because of ongoing knee problems. However, she staged a competitive comeback in late 2024 after a major knee surgery.
With less than two months remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She already possesses one gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"At the Olympics, I will be fully ready," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
Alongside her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has won over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup circuit includes a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
