Lindsey Vonn Assured of Being 'perfectly positioned' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn had a artificial joint installed in her right knee throughout her break from alpine racing.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in a good place" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after securing a place on the rostrum for the fourth time in her last five World Cup competitions.
The veteran athlete, who last week set a record by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Returning to 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 just over a third of a second behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking the runner-up spot.
"I was slightly lacking the right line on the initial jump," the skier commented. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm pleased with my performance today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This performance was her second podium at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also claimed bronze in the downhill race 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 late 2024 after a major knee surgery.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's form are timely.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the next Olympics.
"At the Olympics, I will be where I need to be," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has accumulated over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This current World Cup campaign features a nine more events taking place before the season finals in Norway on 21 March 2026.
