The American champion Confident of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier had a artificial joint placed in her right knee during her break from alpine racing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in a good place" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, following claiming a top-three finish for the fourth time in five World Cup races.
The veteran athlete, who last week set a record by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, took the bronze position in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Competing at the French Alps resort for the first time in eight years, 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 securing second place.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the first jump," Vonn remarked. "From that point on, I skied well. I'm satisfied with my run today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This performance was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also claimed bronze in the downhill on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn officially retired in February 2019 due to ongoing knee problems. However, she staged a competitive comeback in December 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
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 an Olympic gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be in a good place," 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 secured over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup campaign features a total of nine races taking place before the circuit finale in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
