The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Vonn had a artificial joint placed in her right knee throughout her hiatus from the sport.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, following earning a podium spot for the fourth time in five World Cup races.
The 41-year-old, 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 was her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Returning to the iconic venue for the first occasion in eight years, Vonn finished the course 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 second place.
"I was slightly lacking enough direction on the first jump," Vonn remarked. "After that, I performed strongly. I'm satisfied with my skiing today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This performance was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also taken third in the downhill on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Injury
Vonn stepped away from competition in early 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 after a significant orthopedic procedure.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are timely.
She already possesses one gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"In Cortina, I will be fully ready," Vonn affirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has accumulated over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the top of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup campaign includes a nine more events scheduled before the season finals in Norway on 21 March 2026.
