Lindsey Vonn Returning to US for Additional Surgeries

American skier Lindsey Vonn is preparing to return to the United States for additional surgeries following a serious injury sustained during the Olympic downhill event. The incident occurred on February 8, 2026, at the Milan Cortina Olympics, just two days into the competition.

Lindsey Vonn’s Road to Recovery

Recently, Vonn shared the news that she has been cleared to head back home after undergoing her fourth surgery for a significant tibia fracture in her left leg. On social media, she expressed relief, stating, “Surgery went well today! Thankfully I will be able to finally go back to the US!”

Details of the Injury

Facing an anterior cruciate ligament tear in her left knee leading up to the race, Vonn chose to compete nonetheless. Unfortunately, she crashed just 13.4 seconds into her run after getting caught on a gate, resulting in a high-impact tumble down the Dolomite mountains.

Support and Logistics

Sophie Goldschmidt, President and CEO of the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association, has visited Vonn twice in the hospital. She confirmed that Vonn is not in pain and that the team’s medical staff is coordinating her travel back to the U.S. for further surgeries. Goldschmidt noted, “We’ve got a great team around helping her.”

Vonn’s Resilience

In her latest Instagram post, Vonn urged her followers not to feel sorry for her, but rather to draw strength from her struggle. She reflected on the risks she took: “Just because I was ready, that didn’t guarantee me anything. Nothing in life is guaranteed.”

Role Model in Adversity

Goldschmidt praised Vonn’s courage, noting how she manages adversity with grace. “What she’s done for our sports has gone to a whole new level,” she remarked.

As Vonn prepares for her next steps, her journey serves as an inspiration to many, highlighting the challenges athletes face and their unwavering determination to overcome them.