The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a titanium prosthesis installed in her right knee during her hiatus from alpine racing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in a good place" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after claiming a podium spot 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, finished third 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
Competing at the iconic venue for the first occasion in eight years, Vonn crossed the line in a time of 1:20.60. She was 0.36 seconds behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing the runner-up spot.
"I was slightly lacking the right line on the initial jump," Vonn said. "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 taken third in the downhill on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 as a result of ongoing knee problems. However, she staged a competitive comeback in late 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, 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 in her collection and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be in a good place," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has secured over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup campaign features a total of nine races taking place before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
