The American champion Confident of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier had a artificial joint placed in her right knee during her hiatus from the sport.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after securing a place on the rostrum for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup events.
The veteran athlete, who achieved a milestone by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Racing in the iconic venue for the first time in almost a decade, Vonn crossed the line in a time of 1:20.60. She was just over a third of a second behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking second place.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the first jump," Vonn said. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm satisfied with my performance today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This result was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere during the event, having also claimed bronze in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 as a result of ongoing knee problems. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With 47 days remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the next Olympics.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be fully ready," Vonn affirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four World Cup titles she has secured over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the top of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This current World Cup circuit features a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
