The American champion Confident of Being 'perfectly positioned' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
Vonn had a titanium prosthesis installed in her right knee throughout her hiatus from competitive skiing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of securing a top-three finish for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup competitions.
The veteran athlete, who recently made history 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
Returning to the iconic venue for the first time in eight years, Vonn crossed the line in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was just over a third of a second behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing the runner-up spot.
"I was slightly lacking the right line on the first jump," Vonn remarked. "After that, I skied well. I'm happy with my performance today, unlike 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 taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn ended her career in early 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She already possesses an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"At the Olympics, I will be fully ready," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has won over a career spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup campaign features a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
