Lindsey Vonn Confirms Olympic Competition Participation: NPR
American skier Lindsey Vonn has confirmed her participation in the upcoming Winter Olympics despite a recent injury. At 41, she aims to compete in the downhill event after making a remarkable comeback this season.
Lindsey Vonn’s Olympic Aspirations
Days after sustaining a serious injury to her knee during a downhill race in Switzerland, Vonn expressed determination to compete. On Tuesday, she indicated that she feels “confident” about participating in the event scheduled for Sunday, February 8, despite her injury.
Injury Details
Vonn suffered a complete rupture of her anterior cruciate ligament following a crash in Crans-Montana. This race was the last downhill event in the World Cup circuit before the Olympics. Prior to her crash, challenging conditions had already caused injuries to two other competitors.
Season Highlights
- Vonn retired in 2019 due to recurring knee injuries.
- A partial knee replacement in 2024 allowed her to return to serious training.
- This season, she has achieved seven podium finishes in World Cup races.
- Vonn currently leads the FIS downhill standings.
Challenges Ahead
Reflecting on her past, Vonn admitted that returning to professional skiing requires taking significant risks. “I push the limits, I crash,” she noted, acknowledging the injuries she has faced throughout her career. Despite her recent setback, Vonn remains hopeful, aiming for a medal in Cortina d’Ampezzo, the venue of her first World Cup podium finish.
Future Events
Following the downhill race on February 8, Vonn’s participation in subsequent events will largely depend on her performance. The team events are scheduled for February 10, with the super-G event on February 12.
The upcoming Olympics represent not just a career milestone but also a personal journey shaped by her experiences in the sport. With her history at Cortina fueling her comeback, Vonn’s determination to compete is unwavering.
