Lindsey Vonn Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
Vonn underwent a artificial joint fitted to her right knee throughout her break from alpine racing.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, after securing a place on the rostrum for the fourth time in five World Cup races.
The 41-year-old, who recently made history by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Returning to the iconic venue for the first time in almost a decade, 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 was slightly lacking the right line on the initial jump," Vonn remarked. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm satisfied with my run today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
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.
An Incredible Return from Injury
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 because of ongoing knee problems. However, she returned to racing in December 2024 following a major knee surgery.
With less than two months remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals in her collection and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the next Olympics.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be where I need to be," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has won over a career spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is sitting in fifth place in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup campaign includes a total of nine races scheduled before the circuit finale in Norway on 21 March 2026.
