The American champion Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Vonn underwent a artificial joint placed in her right knee throughout her time away from alpine racing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in a good place" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, on the back of securing a place on the rostrum for the fourth time in her last five World Cup competitions.
The veteran athlete, who last week set a record 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 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Racing in the iconic venue for the first occasion in almost a decade, Vonn crossed the line 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 securing the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have the right line on the initial jump," the skier commented. "Subsequently, I performed strongly. I'm pleased with my run today, in contrast to 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 over the weekend, having also finished third in the downhill race on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn officially retired in February 2019 due to persistent injuries. However, she made a stunning return in late 2024 following a partial knee replacement.
With less than two months remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are timely.
She has an Olympic gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be in a good place," Vonn affirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has secured over a career spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the summit of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup circuit features a nine more events scheduled before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.
