The American champion Confident of Being 'in a good place' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
The veteran skier had a artificial joint placed in her right knee throughout her time away from the sport.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of claiming a podium spot for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup competitions.
The 41-year-old, who recently made history by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, took the bronze position in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in Val d'Isere
Competing at the French Alps resort for the first time in eight years, Vonn crossed the line in a time of 1:20.60. She was just over a third of a second behind victor 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 performed strongly. I'm satisfied with my performance today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This performance was her second podium at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also taken third in the downhill on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn stepped away from competition in early 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she staged a competitive comeback in December 2024 after a significant orthopedic procedure.
With less than two months remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She boasts one 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," Vonn affirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has won over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup campaign features a nine more events taking place before the circuit finale in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
