The skiing legend Confident of Being 'perfectly positioned' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier had a surgical implant placed in her right knee during her time away from the sport.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn states she will be "perfectly prepared" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after claiming a top-three finish for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup races.
The veteran athlete, 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 the French Alps
Competing at the French Alps resort for the first occasion in almost a decade, Vonn finished the course in a time of 1:20.60. She was just over a third of a second behind victor 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 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 too conservative."
This result was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere during the event, having also finished third in the downhill on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn officially retired in early 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in late 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With 47 days remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are set to run from February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are timely.
She already possesses an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"At the Olympics, I will be where I need to be," Vonn affirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
Alongside her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four World Cup titles she has secured over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the top 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.
