“Trying to stay positive.” It sounds simple, but for an athlete who has spent years under the spotlight, it’s a constant challenge. Lindsey Vonn has faced her share of criticism, from skepticism about her comebacks to scrutiny over her performances. Yet, through it all, the 40-year-old remains one of the most inspiring figures in skiing history. When she retired in 2019 due to multiple injuries, few could have predicted that she would attempt a return years later.
With an unwavering passion for the sport, the Minnesota native announced her comeback in November 2024—this time with a titanium knee. She had hoped to compete alongside Mikaela Shiffrin at the 2025 Alpine World Championships. However, Shiffrin chose to race in the combined event with downhill world champion Breezy Johnson, and together, they claimed victory. Now, as criticism mounts over Vonn’s return, she has a response.
In a recent Instagram post, Vonn shared her thoughts on the mental battle that comes with pursuing greatness. “Life is short, and we only have one shot… we can’t give up! Sometimes, negative thoughts can get in the way of chasing our dreams,” she wrote, alongside a video capturing her career’s highs and lows. Her message was not just a reflection on her past but a statement of her current mindset. With upcoming World Cup races in Kvitfjell and Hafjell, she remains focused and determined.
Despite undergoing nine surgeries, including ACL and meniscus repairs, Vonn is not backing down. At 40, she isn’t just proving a point she’s chasing new goals, with the 2026 Winter Olympics in sight. In an interview with *Sports Illustrated*, she addressed critics who doubt her because of her age. “It’s frustrating because that’s such a close-minded way to think. This is 2025—things have changed,” she said, emphasizing her mission to challenge athletic limitations.
After retiring in 2019 due to injuries, Vonn made the strategic decision to undergo knee replacement surgery in 2024, reigniting her belief in a comeback. Now, as she faces fresh challenges and criticism, the question remains: Can Lindsey Vonn defy the odds and make history once again?
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