Lindsey Vonn Confident of Being 'perfectly positioned' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a surgical implant placed in her right knee throughout her time away from the sport.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after claiming a podium spot for the fourth time in her last five World Cup events.
The veteran athlete, who last week set a record 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 represented her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Returning to the French Alps resort for the first time in eight years, Vonn crossed the line in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was just over a third of a second behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing second place.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the first jump," Vonn said. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm pleased with my run today, unlike 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.
An Incredible Return from Injury
Vonn officially retired in early 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she returned to racing in December 2024 following a major knee surgery.
With less than two months remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are timely.
She already possesses an Olympic gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be fully ready," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four World Cup titles she has accumulated over a career spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This current World Cup campaign includes a total of nine races scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.
