The American champion Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn had a titanium prosthesis fitted to her right knee during her break from alpine racing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "perfectly prepared" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, following earning a place on the rostrum for the fourth instance in five World Cup races.
The veteran athlete, 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-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Racing in the French Alps resort for the first time in almost a decade, 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 initial jump," the skier commented. "Subsequently, I performed strongly. I'm satisfied with my run 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 taken third in the downhill on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn stepped away from competition in early 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. 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 form are timely.
She already possesses an Olympic gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the next Olympics.
"At the Olympics, I will be in a good place," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has accumulated over a career spanning two decades.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the overall super-G standings.
This current World Cup circuit features a total of nine races taking place before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.