The American champion Optimistic of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier had a artificial joint installed in her right knee throughout her break from competitive skiing.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, after earning a podium spot for the fourth time in five World Cup competitions.
The veteran athlete, who recently made history by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Returning to the iconic venue for the first time in almost a decade, Vonn finished the course in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was 0.36 seconds behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking second place.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the initial jump," Vonn said. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm happy with my skiing today, unlike 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 race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn officially retired in February 2019 due to ongoing knee problems. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 following a major knee surgery.
With 47 days remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are timely.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the next Olympics.
"At the Olympics, 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 World Cup titles she has accumulated over a career spanning 20 years.
She presently enjoys 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 circuit features a nine more events taking place before the circuit finale in Norway on 21 March 2026.
