The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'in prime form' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
Vonn underwent a titanium prosthesis installed in her right knee during her break from competitive skiing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in a good place" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of earning a top-three finish for the fourth time in her last five World Cup events.
The 41-year-old, who last week set a record by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, took the bronze position in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Competing at the French Alps resort for the first time in almost a decade, Vonn crossed the line in a time of 1:20.60. She was 0.36 seconds 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 first jump," Vonn remarked. "From that point on, I skied well. I'm happy with my run today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This performance was her second podium at Val d'Isere during the event, having also taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn officially retired in early 2019 because of ongoing knee problems. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 following a partial knee replacement.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from February 6th to the 22nd, 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.
"In Cortina, I will be where I need to be," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has secured over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup campaign includes a total of nine races scheduled before the season finals in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
