Lindsey Vonn underwent a artificial joint installed in her right knee throughout her break from the sport.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, on the back of earning a top-three finish for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup events.
The veteran athlete, who last week set a record 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 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Competing at the iconic venue for the first occasion 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 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 result was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.
Vonn officially retired in early 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she returned to racing in late 2024 after a major knee surgery.
With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's form are highly promising.
She has an Olympic gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"In Cortina, I will be where I need to be," Vonn affirmed.
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has accumulated over a professional journey spanning two decades.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the top of the downhill World Cup rankings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.
This season's World Cup circuit includes a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.
Kaelen Vance is a seasoned esports journalist and former competitive gamer, passionate about sharing strategies and industry trends.