The American champion Confident of Being 'perfectly positioned' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
The veteran skier had a artificial joint fitted to her right knee throughout her time away from competitive skiing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn states she will be "perfectly prepared" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after claiming a top-three finish for the fourth time in her last five World Cup competitions.
The 41-year-old, who recently made history by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Racing in the French Alps resort for the first time in eight years, Vonn crossed the line in a time of 1:20.60. She was just over a third of a second behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have the right line on the initial jump," Vonn remarked. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm pleased with my skiing today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This performance was her second podium 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 ongoing knee problems. However, she returned to racing in late 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are timely.
She already possesses an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"In Cortina, I will be in a good place," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has secured over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup circuit features a total of nine races taking place before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.
