Lindsey Vonn Airlifted After Crash in Pre-Olympic Downhill Event
On Friday, Lindsey Vonn experienced a significant crash during her final downhill competition in Crans-Montana, Switzerland. This event came just a week before the opening ceremony of the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. Vonn, who is 41 years old and made a remarkable return to skiing, suffered an unsettling injury to her left knee.
Lindsey Vonn’s Crash: Key Details
- Location: Crans-Montana, Switzerland
- Date: One week before the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics
- Event: Women’s downhill race
The Incident
Difficult racing conditions, including low visibility, contributed to the crash. Vonn lost control while landing a jump and ended up tangled in the safety nets. This incident followed two other crashes from competitors Nina Ortlieb and Marte Monsen, causing the race to be canceled after three of the first six racers fell.
After the crash, Vonn was unable to put weight on her left knee. She received immediate medical attention, and despite her attempts to walk unassisted, she eventually required an airlift to a medical facility, dangling by rope across the Swiss Alps.
Vonn’s Performance and Olympic Aspirations
Prior to the crash, Vonn was the top-performing downhiller of the season. She recorded two victories and three additional podium finishes out of eight World Cup races. Vonn’s worst finish this season had been fourth place.
- Upcoming Olympic Events:
- Women’s downhill on February 8
- Super-G event
- New team combined event
Vonn also holds the record for 12 World Cup wins in Cortina d’Ampezzo, where Olympic skiing events for women will be held. This crash occurred right before what was intended to be a final race before the Olympics.
Feedback from Competitors
Following the series of crashes, Romane Miradoli from France expressed concerns regarding visibility as snow was falling heavily. She noted, “You can’t see, and it’s bumpy everywhere,” highlighting the dangerous conditions.
Vonn has faced challenges in her career before, including a serious knee injury in 2013 during the World Championships. Following that incident, she missed the 2014 Sochi Olympics due to injuries.
As the countdown to the Winter Olympics proceeds, uncertainty looms over Vonn’s ability to compete, leaving fans and competitors hopeful for her swift recovery.
