Lindsey Vonn Suffers Knee Injury Before Olympic Comeback
Skier Lindsey Vonn’s pursuit of an Olympic return is in jeopardy following a crash during a women’s downhill race in Crans-Montana, Switzerland. The incident has raised concerns about her ability to compete in the upcoming Winter Olympics, set to begin next week.
Why It Matters
This injury is not just a setback for Vonn; it jeopardizes the aspiration of a beloved Olympic figure attempting a remarkable comeback at 41. Vonn, who made history during her skiing career, aims to add to her legacy on the world stage, making this incident particularly significant for fans and the U.S. ski team alike.
Key Developments
- Vonn crashed while landing a jump, resulting in a knee injury.
- She was the third racer to fall in the downhill event, which subsequently was canceled.
- Initial assessments indicate a potential left knee injury, with further evaluations ongoing.
- Despite the injury, Vonn expressed hope for her Olympic dreams, emphasizing her resilience in her Instagram post.
- The Olympic opening ceremony is set for next Friday, February 6, with the women’s downhill race scheduled for February 8.
Full Report
Incident Details
During the downhill race in Crans-Montana—a crucial stop ahead of the Winter Olympics—Vonn lost her balance after landing a jump, ultimately crashing into the nets lining the course. Once she made her way down to the finish line, she was seen clutching her left knee. Following the crash, Vonn was airlifted for medical evaluation, and the race was promptly called off by officials.
Current Condition
As of now, Vonn’s medical status remains uncertain. The U.S. ski team provided a brief update confirming she is undergoing evaluations. In her own words on Instagram, Vonn acknowledged the knee injury but remained optimistic, stating, “My Olympic dream is not over. If there’s one thing I know how to do, it’s a comeback.”
A Career in Context
Vonn’s career has been highlighted by remarkable achievements, including an Olympic gold medal in the downhill race during the 2010 Vancouver Games—the first American woman to do so in that event. After her retirement in 2019, she held a record of 82 World Cup victories, the highest by any skier. However, due to persistent injuries, particularly to her knees, her retirement felt premature. A recent knee procedure allowed her to return to training with aspirations for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Cortina D’Ampezzo, Italy. Vonn discussed her Olympic ambitions with reporters last fall, underscoring her dedication to the sport.
Context & Previous Events
Vonn experienced a renowned skiing career from the early 2000s through her retirement, racking up a staggering number of wins. Despite her retirement in 2019, she was eager to re-enter competitive skiing after a partial knee replacement in 2024. Vonn’s performances this season have been impressive, with victories and podium finishes, signaling her readiness to compete again. As anticipation builds for the forthcoming Olympic Games, Vonn’s potential participation remains uncertain following this recent setback.
