Image Source: The New York Times
CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy — Lindsey Vonn, the Alpine skiing superstar and Olympic gold medalist, is making headlines once again as she approaches the women’s downhill event at the **2026 Winter Olympics**. Despite suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) just a week prior, Vonn completed her first training run at the famed Olympic course, embodying resilience and determination.
On Friday, amid a bright Italian sun, Vonn made her descent on the 1.6-mile track, clocking a respectable time of 1 minute, 40.33 seconds. While she experienced some challenges, including slightly veering off course, the fact that she crossed the finish line is noteworthy given the circumstances surrounding her injury. “There was reserves today,” said Vonn’s coach, Aksel Lund Svindal. “She looked symmetrical, and from what I saw today, I think she can win.”
Lindsey Vonn’s Journey Back
Vonn’s comeback is remarkable not only because of her past achievements but also due to the severity of her injury. The torn ACL occurred during a training crash in Switzerland, a setback that typically sidelines athletes for extended periods. Nevertheless, Vonn has been vocal about her intent to compete, displaying her unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.
After the training run, Vonn shared a light moment with her teammate Breezy Johnson, who expressed relief that Vonn had successfully completed her run. “She’s down here in the finish, so that’s a start,” Johnson remarked, reflecting the camaraderie and support within the U.S. skiing team.
Preparing for the Downhill Challenge
As Vonn gears up for the women’s downhill event scheduled for Sunday, she continues to train diligently, adapting her techniques and strategies despite her injury. Vonn’s determination was evident during training, where she maintained focus and a positive attitude while executing the course she knows so well. Svindal noted that Vonn was calm and collected at the top of the hill, contrasting his own nervousness as he awaited her run.
“If this works, it’s awesome, but if something happened, it would be bad,” Svindal admitted. The weight of expectations looms large, but both coach and athlete seem to have found a mutually supportive rhythm. “We have a chance,” Svindal concluded, indicating optimism as long as Vonn continues to stay confident in her abilities.
A Legacy of Resilience
Vonn’s career is adorned with accolades and records, including being one of the most successful female skiers in history. Her journey has been marked by both thrilling victories and significant challenges, making her current pursuit heading into the Olympics even more compelling. After coming out of retirement, her goal to secure a second downhill gold medal underscores her drive to carve her legacy even deeper into the history of winter sports.
In anticipation of the showdown ahead, Vonn shared a video on social media recently, showcasing her strength and training, which has drawn significant attention and admiration from fans and fellow athletes alike. This commitment to her physical fitness and mental focus highlights not only her dedication to the sport but also her incredible willpower to overcome obstacles.
What’s Next for Vonn?
The excitement around Vonn’s participation in the women’s downhill event is palpable. As she approaches the starting gate, the eyes of millions will be watching to see if she can turn her unlikely comeback into Olympic glory. With a mixture of hope and trepidation, both fans and analysts eagerly await the results, knowing that Vonn’s journey is as much about spirit as it is about speed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What injury did Lindsey Vonn sustain before the Olympics?
Lindsey Vonn suffered a torn ACL in her left knee during training, just days before the 2026 Winter Olympics.
When is the women’s downhill event scheduled?
The women’s downhill event is scheduled to take place on Sunday of the Olympics.
Who is Lindsey Vonn’s coach?
Her coach is Aksel Lund Svindal, a fellow Olympic gold medalist in downhill skiing.
Is this Vonn’s first Olympics comeback?
No, this is part of her comeback after previously retiring but returning to compete for a second downfall gold medal.
What are Lindsey Vonn’s accomplishments in skiing?
Vonn is a multiple Olympic medalist and widely regarded as one of the most successful female skiers in history, holding numerous records in World Cup events.
