The American champion Confident of Being 'perfectly positioned' for the upcoming Winter Olympics

A shot of the skier competing

The veteran skier underwent a titanium prosthesis installed in her right knee throughout her break from alpine racing.

Alpine star Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "perfectly prepared" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, on the back of claiming a podium spot for the fourth time in five World Cup events.

The 41-year-old, 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 was her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.

Strong Return in Val d'Isere

Racing in the iconic venue 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 second place.

"I didn't quite have the right line on the first jump," the skier commented. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm pleased with my skiing 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 finished third in the downhill race on Saturday.

A Remarkable Comeback from Injury

Vonn officially retired in February 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she returned to racing in December 2024 after a partial knee replacement.

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 has an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the next Olympics.

"In Cortina, I will be where I need to be," the athlete confirmed.

Aiming for Further Glory

Alongside her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has secured over a career spanning two decades.

She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the top of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.

This season's World Cup circuit includes a total of nine races taking place before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.

Susan Clark
Susan Clark

Lena is a travel writer and urban photographer with a passion for documenting city life and sharing local insights.