The American champion Assured of Being 'in prime form' for the upcoming Winter Olympics

A shot of the skier competing

Lindsey Vonn underwent a titanium prosthesis installed in her right knee throughout her time away from alpine racing.

Alpine star Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in a good place" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of securing a podium spot for the fourth instance in 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-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.

Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere

Competing at the French Alps resort for the first occasion 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 victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking the runner-up spot.

"I didn't quite have enough direction on the initial jump," Vonn said. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm happy with my run 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 during the event, having also taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.

An Incredible Return from Injury

Vonn officially retired in early 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she returned to racing in late 2024 after a significant orthopedic procedure.

With 47 days remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are timely.

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

"When we get to Cortina, I will be where I need to be," Vonn affirmed.

Aiming for Further Glory

In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four World Cup titles she has secured 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 circuit features a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Norway on March 21st, 2026.

Steven Ortiz
Steven Ortiz

Elara is an avid adventurer and travel writer, sharing personal tales and practical advice from years of exploring remote wilderness and cultures.