The 41-year-old is still recovering from a severe leg injury sustained during the downhill event, which required eight surgeries and nearly resulted in amputation. She also needs another procedure to repair a torn ACL, meaning any possible return to skiing is at least 18 months away.
Vonn explained that she doesn’t want to rush into a decision about retirement, acknowledging that she may never race again but isn’t in the right mindset to make that call yet.
She had initially returned from a six-year break aiming to compete in Cortina, one of her favorite venues, and was enjoying a strong season before crashing just seconds into the race. Despite previously overcoming multiple injuries, she described this one as far more severe and painful than anything she had experienced before.
Recovery is ongoing, she has progressed from using a wheelchair to crutches and expects to begin walking short distances soon but she admits it’s slower than she would like.
While her family has concerns about the risks of a comeback, Vonn remains characteristically determined, noting that being told she can’t do something only motivates her further.
Known for embracing the dangers of downhill skiing, she said she has no regrets about competing, even given the outcome. For now, her priority is regaining full health before making any decisions about her future in the sport.
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