Lindsey Vonn, the 40-year-old American ski racer, is making a remarkable comeback after nearly six years away from competitive skiing and undergoing a partial knee replacement last April. Vonn took on the role of a forerunner on Wednesday, testing out the Birds of Prey course in Beaver Creek, Colorado, in preparation for a World Cup race.
Vonn, who has 82 World Cup wins to her name, is eyeing a potential return to the Winter Olympics in 2026 at Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. However, she remains focused on taking things one step at a time and staying present in the moment.
Having recently earned enough points at lower-level FIS races to compete on the World Cup circuit, Vonn is set to serve as a forerunner for the upcoming downhill and super-G races in Beaver Creek. Despite feeling physically good during her test run, Vonn is cautious about committing to a racing schedule and is taking her time to make a decision.
Vonn's return to the slopes has generated excitement among fans and teammates. Observers noted her strong form during the practice run, with teammate Bella Wright praising her performance. Vonn, however, acknowledges the need for patience as she continues her comeback journey.
Looking ahead, Vonn has her sights set on the 2026 Winter Games in Cortina, a venue where she has achieved significant success in the past. With 12 World Cup wins at the site and a deep personal connection to Cortina, Vonn views the upcoming Olympics as a special opportunity.
As Vonn navigates her return to competitive skiing, she remains focused on managing expectations and staying true to her journey. Despite the challenges posed by her knee replacement, Vonn is determined to reach her full potential and hopes for understanding and support from her fans and critics alike.
At the recent training session, Federica Brignone of Italy posted the fastest time on the Birds of Prey course, with Lara Gut-Behrami of Switzerland close behind. The racers praised the course's challenging nature and expressed readiness for the upcoming races.
As Vonn continues her comeback story, the skiing world eagerly anticipates her next moves and potential return to the top of the sport.
