The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Vonn had a titanium prosthesis fitted to her right knee throughout her hiatus from alpine racing.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, following earning a podium spot for the fourth instance in five World Cup competitions.
The veteran athlete, who recently made history by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Returning to the French Alps resort for the first occasion in eight years, Vonn finished the course 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 taking second place.
"I was slightly lacking the right line on the initial jump," Vonn remarked. "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 overly cautious."
This performance was her second top-three finish 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 February 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she staged a competitive comeback in December 2024 after a significant orthopedic procedure.
With less than two months remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are highly promising.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"In Cortina, I will be where I need to be," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
Alongside her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four World Cup titles she has accumulated over a career spanning 20 years.
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 campaign includes a nine more events taking place before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.
