Lindsey Vonn Tears ACL, Aims for 2026 Winter Olympics Comeback
Lindsey Vonn, a renowned Olympic gold medalist, recently faced a significant setback. On January 30, she ruptured the ACL in her left knee during a downhill skiing crash. Despite the injury, Vonn is determined to compete in the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina.
Lindsey Vonn’s Determination for Olympic Comeback
Following her recent crash, Vonn expressed confidence about her recovery. Just hours after the incident, she was back on the slopes. She stated that her knee felt stable and strong, with no swelling or pain. For Vonn, her main focus is to race in the downhill event, with decisions on participating in the team combined and super-G following her training.
Reflecting on Past Challenges
Vonn’s career has been marked by both triumph and injury. She is celebrated for her 84 World Cup victories, second only to greats Mikaela Shiffrin and Ingemar Stenmark. Vonn first retired in 2019 due to chronic pain from previous knee injuries, making her current comeback all the more remarkable. She views this moment as a chance to conclude her competitive chapter positively.
Current Status and Future Plans
- Recovery Plan: Vonn will assess her readiness following downhill training runs.
- Upcoming Competitions: Her participation in the team combined event is set for February 10, with the super-G on February 12.
- Milano-Cortina Significance: The 2026 Winter Olympics marks Vonn’s fifth Olympic appearance, making it a special opportunity for her.
Vonn’s dedication to her sport shines through her determination to not let this injury define her journey. “My Olympic dream is not over,” she emphasized, expressing gratitude for her supporters.
A Special Place for a Comeback
Cortina, where Vonn made her first World Cup podium in 2004, holds significant sentimental value. She has celebrated twelve World Cup victories there, making the location an ideal backdrop for her potential final races.
Career Injuries Overview
| Date | Injury | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Jan 2019 | Impact injury | Injury to peroneal nerve |
| Nov 2018 | Torn ligaments | Left knee injuries and tibial plateau fractures |
| Nov 2016 | Fractured humerus | Right arm from training crash |
| Aug 2015 | Broken ankle | Crack obtained during training in New Zealand |
| Feb 2016 | Multiple fractures | In left knee during World Cup super-G |
| Dec 2013 | MCL sprain | Right knee injury |
| Nov 2013 | Torn ACL | Right knee during training crash |
| Feb 2013 | Torn ligaments | Right knee injuries from a super-G crash |
| Feb 2010 | Broken pinkie | From a crash at Vancouver Olympics |
| Dec 2009 | Microfractures | Left forearm from giant slalom crash |
| Feb 2009 | Severed tendon | In right thumb while opening champagne |
| Feb 2007 | Sprained ACL | During world championships training |
With her sights set on the 2026 Winter Olympics, Lindsey Vonn’s journey continues to inspire. Her resilience and passion for skiing exemplify her commitment to her sport and her fans.
