The American champion Confident of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics

Vonn on the slopes

Vonn had a artificial joint placed in her right knee during her hiatus from competitive skiing.

Alpine star Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in a good place" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, on the back of earning a top-three finish for the fourth time in her last five World Cup races.

The 41-year-old, who last week set a record by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, came in third place in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup top-three result.

Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere

Competing at the iconic venue for the first time in eight years, Vonn finished the course in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was 0.36 seconds behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing the runner-up spot.

"I was slightly lacking enough direction on the first jump," Vonn said. "Subsequently, I performed strongly. I'm happy with my performance today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."

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 officially retired in February 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she staged a competitive comeback in December 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.

With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are highly promising.

She boasts one gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.

"In Cortina, I will be in a good place," the athlete confirmed.

Chasing More Titles

Alongside her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has secured over a professional journey spanning two decades.

She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the top of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the overall super-G standings.

This season's World Cup campaign features a total of nine races scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.

Jane Stewart
Jane Stewart

A botanist with over 15 years of experience specializing in temperate forest ecosystems and sustainable arboriculture practices.