The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics

A shot of the skier competing

Vonn had a titanium prosthesis placed in her right knee throughout her hiatus from the sport.

Alpine star Lindsey Vonn states she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, after earning a podium spot for the fourth time in five World Cup events.

The veteran athlete, who last week set a record by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup podium finish.

Impressive Performance in the French Alps

Racing in the French Alps resort for the first time in almost a decade, Vonn finished the course in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was just over a third of a second behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing the runner-up spot.

"I was slightly lacking the right line on the initial jump," the skier commented. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm pleased with my skiing today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."

This performance was her second podium at Val d'Isere during the event, having also claimed bronze in the downhill race on Saturday.

A Remarkable Comeback from Injury

Vonn stepped away from competition in early 2019 because of persistent injuries. However, she returned to racing in December 2024 following a major knee surgery.

With less than two months remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are timely.

She has one gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection 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.

Chasing More Titles

In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four World Cup titles she has secured over a professional journey spanning 20 years.

She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.

This current World Cup circuit features a total of nine races scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.

Jerry Porter
Jerry Porter

Award-winning photographer and visual storyteller with over a decade of experience capturing landscapes and urban scenes across Europe.