US Megastar Retires from Winter Olympics After Devastating Injury
American ski legend Lindsey Vonn faces a daunting challenge as she prepares to compete in the Winter Olympics, despite sustaining a significant knee injury. Vonn revealed this week that she has completely ruptured her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and suffered additional damage following a crash during a World Cup downhill event in Crans Montana, Switzerland. The 41-year-old athlete is determined to compete in the women’s downhill event, which marks her Olympic return after an eight-year hiatus.
Lindsey Vonn’s Injury Details
During a press conference in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Vonn described her injuries, which include:
- Completely ruptured ACL
- Bone bruising
- Meniscus damage
The injury occurred just days before the women’s alpine skiing events, slated to begin with the downhill competition on Sunday. Despite the setback, Vonn expressed optimism about her condition.
Vonn’s Olympic Aspirations
Vonn aims to secure a fourth Olympic medal, hoping to conclude her illustrious career on a high note. Remarkably, she has excelled this season, claiming podium finishes in every World Cup downhill event she participated in, including victories at St. Moritz and Zauchensee.
Olympic Events Planned
In addition to the downhill race, Vonn intends to compete in the following events:
- Team Combined event on February 10
- Super-G on February 12
Despite her injury, she remains confident and emphasizes her improved condition compared to past injuries, stating, “I feel a lot better right now than I did in 2019 for the World Championships.”
The Comeback Story
This season’s journey has been particularly poignant for Vonn, who underwent knee surgery in 2024, partially replacing her right knee. She insists that this comeback is among her most dramatic, saying, “I’ve been through a lot, and this is another amazing chapter.”
As she approaches the Winter Olympics, Lindsey Vonn is not only fighting against her injuries but also competing against a new generation of skiers. Her resolve remains unshaken, as she boldly asserts, “I’m gonna do it. End of story.”
With her tenacity and passion for the sport, Vonn’s pursuit of Olympic glory captures the spirit of resilience and determination against the odds.
