The American champion Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a surgical implant fitted to her right knee throughout her hiatus from competitive skiing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after securing a place on the rostrum for the fourth instance in five World Cup races.
The 41-year-old, who achieved a milestone 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
Competing at the French Alps resort for the first time in almost a decade, Vonn crossed the line 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 securing second place.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the initial jump," the skier commented. "After that, I skied well. I'm happy 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 top-three finish at Val d'Isere during the event, having also finished third in the downhill on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 because of ongoing knee problems. However, she staged a competitive comeback in late 2024 after a significant orthopedic procedure.
With less than two months remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's form are highly promising.
She boasts one gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"In Cortina, I will be fully ready," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
Alongside her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has accumulated over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She currently holds 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 campaign includes a total of nine races taking place before the season finals in Norway on 21 March 2026.
