The skiing legend Confident of Being 'perfectly positioned' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
The veteran skier underwent a artificial joint installed in her right knee during her hiatus from the sport.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, after securing a place on the rostrum for the fourth time in her last five World Cup competitions.
The 41-year-old, who achieved a milestone by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, took the bronze position in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Returning to 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 0.36 seconds behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the initial jump," Vonn remarked. "After that, I skied well. I'm happy 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 over the weekend, having also finished third in the downhill on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Injury
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 following a major knee surgery.
With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are timely.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be in a good place," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has secured over a career spanning two decades.
She currently holds a 69-point 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 campaign features a nine more events taking place before the circuit finale in Norway on 21 March 2026.
