The American champion Optimistic of Being 'in prime form' for Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Vonn had a titanium prosthesis installed in her right knee during her hiatus from competitive skiing.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in an excellent position" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, following claiming a place on the rostrum for the fourth time in five World Cup competitions.
The 41-year-old, who recently made history by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Returning to the iconic venue 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 securing second place.
"I didn't quite have the right line on the first jump," Vonn remarked. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm pleased with my performance today, in contrast to 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 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 returned to racing in late 2024 following a major knee surgery.
With less than two months remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's form are highly promising.
She already possesses one gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the next Olympics.
"In Cortina, I will be fully ready," 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 secured over a career spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup campaign features a total of nine races taking place before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
