The American champion Assured of Being 'in prime form' for the upcoming Winter Olympics

Vonn on the slopes

Vonn underwent a surgical implant installed in her right knee during her break from alpine racing.

Alpine star Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in a good place" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after claiming a place on the rostrum for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup competitions.

The 41-year-old, who last week set a record by becoming the oldest 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 podium finish.

Strong Return in Val d'Isere

Returning to 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 enough direction on the initial jump," the skier commented. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm pleased with my run today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."

This performance 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 stepped away from competition in early 2019 because of persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in late 2024 after a major knee surgery.

With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are timely.

She boasts an Olympic gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.

"In Cortina, I will be where I need to be," Vonn affirmed.

Chasing More Titles

Alongside 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 downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.

This current World Cup circuit includes a nine more events scheduled before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.

Erin Mcgrath
Erin Mcgrath

A tech strategist with over a decade of experience in digital innovation and startup consulting across Europe.