The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Vonn underwent a artificial joint installed in her right knee throughout her hiatus from the sport.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in a good place" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of claiming a place on the rostrum for the fourth instance in five World Cup competitions.
The veteran athlete, who achieved a milestone by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, took the bronze position in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Returning to the iconic venue for the first occasion in almost a decade, Vonn crossed the line 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 didn't quite have the right line on the initial jump," Vonn said. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm pleased with my skiing today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was overly cautious."
This result was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere during the event, having also claimed bronze in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she staged a competitive comeback in December 2024 after a partial knee replacement.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are timely.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be where I need to be," 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 accumulated over a career spanning two decades.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This current World Cup campaign includes a total of nine races taking place before the circuit finale in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
