The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'in a good place' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a surgical implant installed in her right knee during her time away from the sport.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in a good place" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of claiming a top-three finish for the fourth time in five World Cup competitions.
The 41-year-old, who achieved a milestone by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, took the bronze position in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Returning to the French Alps resort for the first occasion 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 taking the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have the right line on the initial jump," the skier commented. "After that, I performed strongly. I'm happy with my skiing today, in contrast to 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 finished third in the downhill on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Injury
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 because of persistent injuries. However, she returned to racing in late 2024 after a major knee surgery.
With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are timely.
She already possesses one gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"At the Olympics, I will be fully ready," Vonn affirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has accumulated over a career spanning 20 years.
She currently holds 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 circuit includes a nine more events scheduled before the season finals in Norway on 21 March 2026.
