The skiing legend Assured of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Vonn had a surgical implant fitted to her right knee during her hiatus from competitive skiing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, following claiming a podium spot for the fourth instance in five World Cup events.
The veteran athlete, who recently made history by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Returning to the iconic venue for the first occasion in almost a decade, 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 securing second place.
"I was slightly lacking the right line on the initial jump," Vonn remarked. "Subsequently, I performed strongly. I'm pleased with my run today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This performance was her second podium at Val d'Isere during the event, having also taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn officially retired in February 2019 because of persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in late 2024 after a partial knee replacement.
With 47 days 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 next Olympics.
"At the Olympics, I will be in a good place," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
Alongside her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has secured over a career spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings and is sitting in fifth place in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup campaign includes a total of nine races taking place before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
