The American champion Confident of Being 'perfectly positioned' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn underwent a titanium prosthesis fitted to her right knee throughout her time away from the sport.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of earning a top-three finish for the fourth time in five World Cup competitions.
The veteran athlete, who recently made history by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Competing at the French Alps resort for the first occasion in eight years, 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 securing the runner-up spot.
"I was slightly lacking the right line on the first jump," Vonn remarked. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm pleased with my skiing today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This performance was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere during the event, having also taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
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 less than two months remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are timely.
She already possesses an Olympic gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"In Cortina, I will be in a good place," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has won over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup campaign includes a total of nine races scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
