The American champion Confident of Being 'in prime form' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
The veteran skier had a surgical implant fitted to her right knee during her hiatus from competitive skiing.
Alpine star Lindsey Vonn states she will be "in a good place" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, following securing a podium spot for the fourth time in 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 giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Strong Return 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 one minute 20.60 seconds. She was just over a third of a second behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking the runner-up spot.
"I was slightly lacking enough direction on the initial jump," Vonn remarked. "Subsequently, I skied well. I'm satisfied with my run today, in contrast to in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was overly cautious."
This performance was her second podium at Val d'Isere during the event, having also claimed bronze in the downhill race on Saturday.
A Remarkable Comeback from Retirement
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 because 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 scheduled for February 6th to the 22nd, Vonn's form are highly promising.
She already possesses an Olympic gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.
"At the Olympics, I will be in a good place," Vonn affirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has secured over a career spanning 20 years.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup campaign includes a total of nine races scheduled before the circuit finale in Norway on March 21st, 2026.
