The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier had a titanium prosthesis installed in her right knee during her break from the sport.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, following claiming a podium spot for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup competitions.
The veteran athlete, who last week set a record by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return 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 one minute 20.60 seconds. She was 0.36 seconds behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing second place.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the initial jump," Vonn said. "After that, I performed strongly. I'm satisfied with my run today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This performance was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere during the event, having also claimed bronze in the downhill on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 due to ongoing knee problems. However, she staged a competitive comeback in December 2024 following a major knee surgery.
With less than two months remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She boasts one gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be where I need to be," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four World Cup titles she has won over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup campaign includes a nine more events scheduled before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
