Lindsey Vonn Optimistic of Being 'in prime form' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
The veteran skier had a titanium prosthesis fitted to her right knee throughout her break from the sport.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, following earning a podium spot for the fourth instance in five World Cup events.
The 41-year-old, 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
Returning to 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 taking the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have the right line on the first jump," Vonn said. "From that point on, I skied well. I'm pleased with my skiing today, in contrast to 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.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn stepped away from competition in early 2019 because of persistent injuries. However, she staged a competitive comeback in late 2024 after a partial knee replacement.
With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's form are highly promising.
She has 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 where I need to be," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has secured over a career spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the top of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup campaign includes a total of nine races taking place before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.
