The skiing legend Assured of Being 'perfectly positioned' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Vonn underwent a surgical implant fitted to her right knee throughout her break from competitive skiing.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of claiming a top-three finish for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup competitions.
The 41-year-old, who last week set a record 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 marked her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup podium finish.
Impressive Performance in the French Alps
Competing at the iconic venue for the first occasion in almost a decade, Vonn crossed the line 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 second place.
"I didn't quite have the right line on the initial jump," Vonn remarked. "After that, I performed strongly. I'm pleased with my run today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was overly cautious."
This performance was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere during the event, having also taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Injury
Vonn stepped away from competition in February 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she returned to racing in late 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With less than two months remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's form are highly promising.
She already possesses an Olympic gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"In Cortina, I will be in a good place," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has accumulated over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup campaign features a nine more events scheduled before the season finals in Norway on 21 March 2026.
