The American champion Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Vonn had a surgical implant placed in her right knee throughout her time away from the sport.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn states she will be "perfectly prepared" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after earning a top-three finish for the fourth time in her last five World Cup races.
The 41-year-old, who last week set a record 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 marked her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup top-three result.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Competing at the iconic venue for the first time in almost a decade, Vonn finished the course 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 second place.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the initial jump," the skier commented. "Subsequently, I performed strongly. I'm satisfied 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 finished third in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she staged a competitive comeback in December 2024 after a major knee surgery.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are timely.
She has one gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be fully ready," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has won over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup circuit includes a total of nine races taking place before the circuit finale in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
