The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'in a good place' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a artificial joint fitted to her right knee during her hiatus from alpine racing.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in a good place" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after claiming a place on the rostrum for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup races.
The veteran athlete, who last week set a record by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, took the bronze position in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Racing in the iconic venue for the first occasion in almost a decade, Vonn crossed the line in a time of 1:20.60. She was 0.36 seconds behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking the runner-up spot.
"I was slightly lacking the right line on the first jump," Vonn said. "From that point on, I skied well. I'm pleased with my run today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This result was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also claimed bronze in the downhill on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn ended her career in early 2019 due to ongoing knee problems. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 after a major knee surgery.
With less than two months remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are timely.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the next Olympics.
"At the Olympics, I will be in a good place," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has won over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings and is sitting in fifth place in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup circuit includes a nine more events taking place before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.
