The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Vonn had a surgical implant fitted to her right knee during her break from competitive skiing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, following securing a podium spot for the fourth time in five World Cup races.
The 41-year-old, who last week set a record by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Returning to the French Alps resort for the first time in almost a decade, Vonn finished the course in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was 0.36 seconds behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking second place.
"I didn't quite have the right line on the initial jump," Vonn said. "After that, I skied well. I'm satisfied with my skiing today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This result was her second podium at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also finished third in the downhill race on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn officially retired in early 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 following a significant orthopedic procedure.
With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are timely.
She already possesses one gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"At the Olympics, I will be in a good place," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
Alongside her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has won over a career spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup campaign includes a nine more events taking place before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
