The American champion Optimistic of Being 'in prime form' for the upcoming Winter Olympics

American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after securing a podium spot for the fourth time in her last five World Cup competitions.

The veteran athlete, who last week set a record by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.

Strong Return in Val d'Isere

Competing at the iconic venue for the first occasion in eight years, Vonn finished the course in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was just over a third of a second behind victor Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson taking second place.

"I was slightly lacking enough direction on the first jump," the skier commented. "After that, I skied well. I'm satisfied with my performance today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was overly cautious."

This performance was her second podium at Val d'Isere during the event, having also taken third in the downhill on Saturday.

An Incredible Return from Retirement

Vonn stepped away from competition in February 2019 because of ongoing knee problems. However, she staged a competitive comeback in December 2024 after a significant orthopedic procedure.

With less than two months remaining until the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are timely.

She boasts one gold and two bronze medals in her collection and is firmly on track to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.

"In Cortina, I will be fully ready," Vonn affirmed.

Chasing More Titles

Alongside her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four World Cup titles she has won over a career spanning two decades.

She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the summit of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the overall super-G standings.

This season's World Cup circuit features a nine more events scheduled before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.