The American champion Optimistic of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Vonn underwent a surgical implant installed in her right knee during her break from competitive skiing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of securing a place on the rostrum 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, took the bronze position in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Racing in the French Alps resort for the first occasion 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 taking second place.
"I was slightly lacking enough direction 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 too conservative."
This performance was her second podium at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also claimed bronze in the downhill race on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Injury
Vonn officially retired in early 2019 because of ongoing knee problems. However, she staged a competitive comeback in December 2024 after a partial knee replacement.
With just over six weeks remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's form are highly promising.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two Olympic 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.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has accumulated over a career spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup circuit includes a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.
