The skiing legend Confident of Being 'perfectly positioned' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
Vonn underwent a titanium prosthesis installed in her right knee during her time away from the sport.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of earning a top-three finish for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup events.
The veteran athlete, who achieved a milestone by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Competing at the French Alps resort for the first time in almost a decade, Vonn crossed the line in a time of 1:20.60. She was 0.36 seconds behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing the runner-up spot.
"I was slightly lacking the right line on the first jump," Vonn said. "After that, I skied well. 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 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 because of ongoing knee problems. However, she returned to racing in late 2024 after a major knee surgery.
With less than two months remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She boasts one gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be in a good place," Vonn affirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has accumulated over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup campaign includes a nine more events taking place before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
