The American champion Assured of Being 'in a good place' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
Vonn had a titanium prosthesis fitted to her right knee during her break from competitive skiing.
Legendary skier 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 instance in her last five World Cup competitions.
The 41-year-old, who achieved a milestone by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, took the bronze position in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Impressive Performance in the French Alps
Racing in the French Alps resort for the first occasion in eight years, Vonn crossed the line in a time of 1:20.60. She was 0.36 seconds behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking the runner-up spot.
"I didn't quite have enough direction on the initial jump," Vonn said. "Subsequently, I performed strongly. I'm satisfied with my run today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was overly cautious."
This result was her second podium at Val d'Isere during the event, having also finished third in the downhill race on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn ended her career in early 2019 because of ongoing knee problems. However, she staged a competitive comeback in December 2024 after a significant orthopedic procedure.
With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are highly promising.
She boasts one gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is firmly on track to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"When we get to Cortina, I will be fully ready," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also aiming to increase 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 downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.
This season's World Cup circuit features a nine more events taking place before the circuit finale in Norway on 21 March 2026.