The American champion Optimistic of Being 'in a good place' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a artificial joint installed in her right knee during her time away from the sport.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in a good place" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, following earning a podium spot for the fourth instance in five World Cup events.
The veteran athlete, who recently made history by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, took the bronze position in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Returning to the French Alps resort for the first occasion in eight years, 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 securing second place.
"I was slightly lacking the right line on the initial jump," Vonn remarked. "Subsequently, I performed strongly. I'm happy with my performance 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 on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 as a result of ongoing knee problems. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 following a partial knee replacement.
With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are highly promising.
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.
"At the Olympics, I will be where I need to be," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has won over a career spanning 20 years.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the top of the overall downhill standings 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 Norway on 21 March 2026.