Lindsey Vonn underwent a artificial joint placed in her right knee throughout her break from the sport.
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn asserts she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of earning a podium spot for the fourth time in five World Cup races.
The 41-year-old, who recently made history by becoming the most senior racer to win a 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.
Racing in the French Alps resort for the first occasion in eight years, 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 was slightly lacking enough direction on the initial jump," the skier commented. "After that, I skied well. I'm pleased with my run today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was too conservative."
This result was her second podium at Val d'Isere during the event, having also taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.
Vonn officially retired in February 2019 because of persistent injuries. However, she staged a competitive comeback in late 2024 following a partial knee replacement.
With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are timely.
She boasts one gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the next Olympics.
"At the Olympics, I will be in a good place," the athlete confirmed.
Alongside her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four overall crystal globes she has secured over a career spanning two decades.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup campaign includes a nine more events scheduled before the season finals in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
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