The skiing legend Confident of Being 'perfectly positioned' for the upcoming Winter Olympics

Lindsey Vonn in action

Vonn had a artificial joint installed in her right knee during her break from alpine racing.

Alpine star Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in a good place" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after securing a podium spot for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup competitions.

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 marked her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.

Strong Return in Val d'Isere

Competing at the French Alps resort for the first occasion in almost a decade, Vonn finished the course in a time of 1:20.60. She was just over a third of a second 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," Vonn said. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm pleased with my performance today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."

This result was her second podium at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also finished third in the downhill race on Saturday.

A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement

Vonn stepped away from competition in February 2019 because of ongoing knee problems. However, she made a stunning return in late 2024 after a significant orthopedic procedure.

With just over six weeks remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are timely.

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

"When we get to Cortina, I will be where I need to be," the athlete confirmed.

Aiming for Further Glory

Alongside her Olympic ambitions, 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 downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.

This season's World Cup circuit includes a nine more events taking place before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.

Debra Kelly
Debra Kelly

A mindfulness coach and digital wellness advocate with over a decade of experience in helping individuals achieve balance in the modern world.