The American champion Confident of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn underwent a artificial joint fitted to her right knee throughout her time away from the sport.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of earning a place on the rostrum for the fourth time in her last five World Cup events.
The 41-year-old, who last week set a record by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her 142nd 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 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 securing second place.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the first jump," the skier commented. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm happy with my performance today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was overly cautious."
This result was her second podium at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn officially retired in early 2019 as a result of ongoing knee problems. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With less than two months remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are timely.
She already possesses an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to represent 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 aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has accumulated over a career spanning 20 years.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the top of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup campaign features a nine more events taking place before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.