The American champion Assured of Being 'perfectly positioned' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a surgical implant installed in her right knee during her time away from competitive skiing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in a good place" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of securing a podium spot for the fourth time in five World Cup competitions.
The 41-year-old, who last week set a record by becoming the oldest 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
Racing in the iconic venue for the first time in eight years, Vonn finished the course 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 didn't quite have the right line on the initial jump," Vonn said. "From that point on, I skied well. I'm satisfied with my skiing today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was overly cautious."
This performance was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also taken 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 returned to racing in December 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She boasts one gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"At the Olympics, I will be in a good place," Vonn affirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes 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 ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup campaign includes a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
