The American champion Optimistic of Being 'in prime form' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
Vonn had a titanium prosthesis installed in her right knee throughout her hiatus from competitive skiing.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, following earning a top-three finish for the fourth time 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 was her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Racing in the iconic venue 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 taking the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have the right line on the initial jump," the skier commented. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm satisfied with my run today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This result was her second podium at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also finished third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn officially retired in early 2019 due to ongoing knee problems. However, she staged a competitive comeback in December 2024 after a major knee surgery.
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 already possesses an Olympic gold and two Olympic 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," Vonn affirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has secured over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This current World Cup circuit features a nine more events taking place before the circuit finale in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
