Doctor Fears Amputation for Lindsey Vonn Following Devastating Olympic Crash
Lindsey Vonn’s recent accident at the 2026 Olympic Games has raised serious concerns about her future in skiing. During the women’s downhill event, Vonn suffered a significant tibia fracture, resulting from a devastating crash just 13 seconds into the race.
Injury Details and Medical Prognosis
Dr. Bertrand Sonnery-Cottet, an orthopedic knee specialist in France, is evaluating Vonn’s condition. He revealed that there is a risk she might need to face amputation due to the severity of her injuries. He stated, “Her goal now is first and foremost to keep her leg and be able to walk.”
Dr. Sonnery-Cottet emphasized that high-level skiing is not a current option for her recovery. He indicated that some injuries like hers can lead to amputation, depending on how her healing progresses.
Complex Nature of Vonn’s Injury
Former NFL team doctor David J. Chao offered further insight into the complexity of Vonn’s injury. He described her situation: “Lindsey Vonn’s external fixator tells the story. This wasn’t just a fracture; it was a complex open injury with significant knee damage.”
- Multiple surgeries are anticipated, including washouts and hardware removal.
- The timeline for her recovery remains uncertain.
Crash Incident at Cortina
The crash occurred in Cortina, Italy, when Vonn’s right arm collided with a gate. This contact caused her to lose control and fall awkwardly, leading to her tumbling down the mountain. She was quickly airlifted from the scene for immediate medical attention.
Career Impact
This incident has raised questions about the future of Vonn’s career, particularly as she attempted a comeback after several years away from the sport. Previously, she had suffered an ACL injury while competing in Crans-Montana but was determined to participate in these Olympic games. Her attempts to make a significant mark were abruptly halted by this recent injury.
If Vonn’s injury ends her Olympic trajectory, it will close a remarkable chapter where she competed in five Olympic Games—2002, 2010, 2018, and 2026—securing three medals. Notably, she made history by winning gold in the women’s downhill event in Vancouver in 2010, becoming the first American woman to achieve this honor.
