Lindsey Vonn is living proof that the struggle between physical health and sheer willpower never truly ends. With 82 World Cup victories to her name, you’d think she’d be enjoying a well-earned break but that’s not Vonn’s style. Her career has been marked by relentless comebacks from injuries and surgeries, and now, she’s setting her sights on Milan-Cortina 2026. However, the road ahead looks anything but easy.
At 40, Vonn faces a steep challenge despite the renewed hope she gained from last year’s knee surgery. Competing in the Women’s Super-G at her ninth World Championships in Saalbach, she’ll be up against fierce rivals like Lara Gut-Behrami, Federica Brignone, and Sofia Goggia. But just when fans were hoping for smooth sailing, Vonn shared a health update on Instagram that had everyone shaking their heads.
In a recent story, she appeared with watery eyes, using a nebulizer to battle what seems to be the flu. Her caption? “Current state… could be better.” No arguments there, Lindsey! Now, the big question is whether she’ll be ready for her upcoming events on February 5th. If history is any indicator, she’ll push through just as she did when she returned to skiing at the Beaver Creek World Cup only eight months after knee surgery in 2024.
Aiming for a Historic Olympic Return
Vonn’s retirement in 2019 wasn’t an easy decision. After years of injuries, she admitted her body was “broken beyond repair,” and stepping away from competitive skiing seemed like the only way to preserve her health. But after undergoing knee replacement surgery and a long recovery, she’s back. Since December, she’s been competing in downhill and Super-G races, and now, she has her eyes set on the 2026 Olympics.
“I’ve always loved a challenge,” Vonn shared. “My journey back to competitive skiing has been driven by my love of the sport, the thrill of speed, and the exhilaration that first drew me to the slopes.”
Her career is nothing short of legendary—Olympic gold in 2010, 82 World Cup victories, and countless moments of pure dominance. But after sustaining multiple injuries, she knew it was time to walk away. “Leaving the sport I loved so much was devastating, but I knew it was necessary for my health,” she admitted. Initially, she planned to stay active in other ways, never expecting she’d return to competitive skiing. Yet as her new knee began to feel stronger than expected, the thought crept in: Why not try again?
With medical clearance and a cautious approach, she made her return keeping her expectations low but her enthusiasm high. “Every step forward has been a pleasant surprise, and most importantly, I’m having fun,” she said. Milan-Cortina 2026 holds deep meaning for Vonn. It’s where she first realized her potential, making the chance to compete there again even more special. She’s also thrilled to witness history, as these Olympics are expected to feature the highest-ever female participation in a Winter Games.
“I look forward to seeing Milan-Cortina 2026 inspire a new generation of athletes,” she said. And if anyone knows what it takes to inspire, it’s Lindsey Vonn.
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