Vonn underwent a surgical implant installed in her right knee during her hiatus from competitive skiing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, on the back of securing a top-three finish for the fourth time in five World Cup races.
The veteran athlete, who achieved a milestone by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Impressive Performance in the French Alps
Returning to the iconic venue for the first occasion in almost a decade, Vonn finished the course in a time of 1:20.60. She was just over a third of a second behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking the runner-up spot.
"I was slightly lacking enough direction on the initial jump," the skier commented. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm happy with my performance today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This result was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also finished third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn officially retired in early 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she returned to racing in December 2024 following a partial knee replacement.
With just over six weeks remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are set to run from February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are timely.
She has one gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be fully ready," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four World Cup titles she has accumulated over a career spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup campaign features a total of nine races scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.
