The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'in prime form' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
The veteran skier had a surgical implant installed in her right knee throughout her break from the sport.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in a good place" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, after earning a place on the rostrum for the fourth time in her last five World Cup competitions.
The veteran athlete, who recently made history by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, took the bronze position in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This represented her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Returning to the iconic venue for the first occasion in eight years, Vonn finished the course in a time of 1:20.60. She was just over a third of a second behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing second place.
"I was slightly lacking enough direction on the first jump," Vonn remarked. "From that point on, I skied well. 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 claimed bronze in the downhill on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn stepped away from competition in February 2019 as a result of ongoing knee problems. However, she returned to racing in late 2024 following a partial knee replacement.
With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's performances are timely.
She boasts one gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the next Olympics.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be in a good place," Vonn affirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has secured over a career spanning 20 years.
She currently holds a 69-point lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup circuit includes a nine more events scheduled before the circuit finale in Kvitfjell, Norway on March 21st, 2026.