The American champion Optimistic of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier had a titanium prosthesis installed in her right knee during her hiatus from alpine racing.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in a good place" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, following securing a podium spot for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup competitions.
The 41-year-old, 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 the French Alps
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 0.36 seconds 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 first jump," Vonn said. "From that point on, I skied well. I'm happy with my performance 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 during the event, having also claimed bronze in the downhill on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 because of ongoing knee problems. 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 form are timely.
She already possesses an Olympic gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be in a good place," 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 won over a career 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 super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup campaign includes a nine more events taking place before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
