Lindsey Vonn clinched silver in Tarvisio, continuing her comeback as she eyes the 2026 Olympics, showcasing her enduring competitive spirit.
TARVISIO, Italy — Lindsey Vonn, the iconic American alpine skier, showcased her remarkable resilience and enduring competitive spirit this past Sunday by finishing second in the FIS World Cup super-G event held in picturesque Tarvisio. This achievement marked Vonn's sixth podium finish in her last six competitions, further solidifying her status as a formidable force in the sport as she gears up for the highly anticipated 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina.
At 41 years old, Vonn continues to defy expectations in a sport often dominated by younger athletes. Over the course of the current World Cup season, she has consistently demonstrated her prowess, securing a podium position in seven out of her eight races. The only time she fell short was a narrow fourth-place finish, where she missed the podium by a mere 0.08 seconds. This consistency is particularly notable as Vonn embarks on a comeback journey after a series of injuries that had previously sidelined her.
In an interview with Eurosport following her impressive run, Vonn expressed the challenges she faced during the race. "It was actually really tough. I tried not to have too many expectations because I knew the other girls were going to be fast, and the snow was really soft," she said. Her acknowledgment of the difficult snow conditions speaks to her experience and strategic approach to racing against a field of younger competitors who are eager to make their mark.
Vonn's recent performances in Tarvisio have not only highlighted her return to form but have also emphasized her impressive track record in speed events. Over the years, she has established herself as one of the sport’s preeminent downhill racers, amassing a remarkable collection of accolades, including three Olympic medals: a gold in downhill at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics and two bronze medals in Super-G and downhill at the 2010 and 2018 Olympics, respectively.
As the countdown to the Milan-Cortina Olympics begins, Vonn reflects on her history at the venue. She has enjoyed considerable success in Cortina, winning the downhill event five times and achieving podium finishes in both super-G and downhill on 20 occasions throughout her illustrious career. This impressive record adds a layer of motivation for Vonn as she prepares for what she has described as a 'special' opportunity to compete once more on the Olympic stage.
"I don’t think I would have tried this comeback if the Olympics weren’t in Cortina. If it had been anywhere else, I would probably say it’s not worth it. But, for me, there’s something special about Cortina that always pulls me back and it’s pulled me back one last time," Vonn shared in a candid moment with ABC ahead of the upcoming games. Her words resonate deeply with fans and fellow athletes alike, capturing the emotional connection she has with the sport and the venue.
Vonn's achievements extend beyond her podium finishes; she has become a role model for aspiring athletes, particularly young women in sports. Her journey through injuries and setbacks has been a testament to her indomitable spirit and work ethic. As she continues to compete against a new generation of skiers, her experience and strategic insights offer a unique perspective that can influence and inspire others.
The Tarvisio super-G result is more than just a silver medal; it signifies Vonn's steadfast determination to reclaim her place among the elite in alpine skiing. With each race, she not only seeks personal success but also aims to elevate the profile of the sport, paving the way for future generations of skiers.
As the alpine skiing community looks forward to the 2026 Winter Olympics, all eyes will be on Lindsey Vonn. Her return to form, coupled with her vast experience and record of success, makes her a compelling contender. As she continues her training and racing in the lead-up to the Olympics, fans and fellow competitors alike will be eager to see if she can add to her already illustrious career with yet another Olympic medal. The upcoming season promises to be a thrilling chapter in Vonn’s storied career, and the anticipation surrounding her performance in Cortina is palpable as the world prepares for the excitement of the Winter Games.