The American champion Confident of Being 'in prime form' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
The veteran skier had a titanium prosthesis fitted to her right knee throughout her hiatus from competitive skiing.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, after earning a top-three finish for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup competitions.
The veteran athlete, who achieved a milestone by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Impressive Performance in Val d'Isere
Racing in the French Alps resort for the first time in almost a decade, 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 was slightly lacking enough direction on the initial jump," the skier commented. "After that, I performed strongly. I'm pleased with my performance today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This result was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere during the event, having also finished third in the downhill on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she returned to racing in late 2024 after a partial knee replacement.
With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are highly promising.
She has one gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be where I need to be," the athlete confirmed.
Chasing More Titles
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has won over a professional journey spanning 20 years.
She presently enjoys a 69-point 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 scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
