The American champion Assured of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn had a surgical implant fitted to her right knee throughout her break from alpine racing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, following securing 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, finished third in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Returning to the French Alps resort for the first time in eight years, Vonn finished the course 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 second place.
"I didn't quite have the right line on the initial jump," Vonn remarked. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm happy with my skiing 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 during the event, having also claimed bronze in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn officially retired in February 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in late 2024 following a major knee surgery.
With 47 days remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are timely.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the next Olympics.
"At the Olympics, I will be fully ready," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
Alongside her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has won over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings 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 circuit finale in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
