The American champion Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn underwent a artificial joint fitted to her right knee during her time away from the sport.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of securing a podium spot for the fourth time in her last five World Cup events.
The veteran athlete, who achieved a milestone 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 one hundred and forty-second career World Cup top-three result.
Impressive Performance in the French Alps
Racing in the iconic venue for the first time in eight years, 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 securing second place.
"I didn't quite have the right line on the first jump," the skier commented. "After that, I performed strongly. I'm satisfied with my skiing 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 during the event, having also claimed bronze in the downhill on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Injury
Vonn ended her career in early 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she staged a competitive comeback in late 2024 after a significant orthopedic procedure.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are timely.
She boasts an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"At the Olympics, I will be in a good place," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has accumulated over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the summit 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 taking place before the season finals in Norway on 21 March 2026.
