Lindsey Vonn: Olympic ski champion to race again
PARK CITY, Utah –
Lindsey Vonn, the legendary Alpine skier, has made a stunning announcement – she is coming out of retirement to rejoin the U.S. Ski Team at the age of 40. This decision comes six years after her last appearance at the Winter Olympics.
Vonn, a three-time Olympic medallist, has an impressive track record that includes a gold medal in downhill and a bronze in super-G at the 2010 Vancouver Games, as well as a bronze in downhill at the 2018 Pyeongchang Games. With four overall World Cup championships and eight world championships medals to her name, Vonn is one of the most successful Alpine ski racers of all time.
Despite her retirement, Vonn’s legacy continued to inspire the next generation of skiers, including American sensation Mikaela Shiffrin. Shiffrin, who surpassed Vonn’s record for most World Cup wins by a woman, acknowledged Vonn’s influence on her career, stating, “I don’t know if I could fill Lindsey’s shoes, the way that she has worn them.”
Vonn’s decision to return to competitive skiing comes after a series of injuries that plagued her career, including broken bones, torn ligaments, and concussions. In April, she underwent a partial knee replacement, showcasing her resilience and determination to overcome challenges.
Having recently resumed training, Vonn expressed her excitement to be back on the slopes without pain. She aims to share her wealth of knowledge and experience with the current members of the U.S. Ski Team, emphasizing her commitment to the sport.
U.S. Ski & Snowboard president and CEO, Sophie Goldschmidt, lauded Vonn’s dedication to Alpine skiing, stating, “We’re excited to have her back on snow and see where she can go from here.” Vonn’s return to the team is effective immediately, although specific race plans have not yet been disclosed.
With the next Winter Olympics scheduled for Italy in February 2026, Vonn’s comeback has sparked anticipation and excitement within the skiing community. As she embarks on this new chapter in her career, fans eagerly await her future performances on the world stage.
