The American champion Optimistic of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Vonn underwent a artificial joint fitted to her right knee throughout her break from alpine racing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, after securing a top-three finish for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup races.
The 41-year-old, who recently made history 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 represented her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Competing at the iconic venue for the first occasion in eight years, Vonn crossed the line in a time of 1:20.60. She was 0.36 seconds behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have the right line on the first jump," the skier commented. "Subsequently, I performed strongly. I'm pleased 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 finished third in the downhill on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn officially retired in early 2019 as a result of ongoing knee problems. However, she returned to racing in December 2024 following a major knee surgery.
With 47 days remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"In Cortina, I will be where I need to be," 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 accumulated over a career spanning two decades.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup campaign features a total of nine races scheduled before the circuit finale in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
