Lindsey Vonn has announced her intention to return to competitive alpine skiing at the age of 40, following a knee replacement surgery earlier this year. After retiring five years ago, Vonn shared her excitement about feeling healthy again and training to take on the slopes. She humorously noted on Instagram, “I hope the [U.S. Ski Team] uniform still fits,” as she prepares for this new chapter.
Vonn’s comeback coincides with the 20th anniversary of her first World Cup victory. The Alpine World Cup season for 2024-25 officially began on October 26 and will conclude in March 2025. She expressed immense gratitude for being able to ski pain-free again and emphasized her eagerness to return not just as a competitor but also to share her extensive knowledge of the sport with the new generation of female skiers.
Regarded as one of the most decorated athletes in skiing history, Vonn holds numerous records, including being the woman with the most World Cup wins in both downhill and super-G events, with a total of 82 victories. Her achievements place her just behind fellow American Mikaela Shiffrin and Swedish skier Ingemar Stenmark. Vonn and Shiffrin are part of an elite group of skiers who have won races in all five disciplines of alpine skiing: downhill, super-G, giant slalom, slalom, and combined.
Sophie Goldschmidt, President and CEO of U.S. Ski & Snowboard, praised Vonn’s dedication and expressed excitement for her return to skiing. Vonn’s journey has not been without challenges; her determination to excel in speed disciplines has led to numerous injuries and nine surgeries throughout her career. She openly discussed her battle with severe knee degeneration and elaborate surgeries that replaced the damaged parts with titanium.
Vonn’s previous inclination to race against men in 2012, although denied by the International Ski Federation, showcased her hunger for competition. In training run, she famously reached speeds of up to 136 kilometers per hour (84.5 mph), setting records that many male skiers failed to match.
Speculation about Vonn’s potential return had been circulating recently, particularly after sightings of her skiing in New Zealand and Austria. Fellow skier Sofia Goggia praised the possibility of racing alongside her idol, highlighting Vonn’s healthy condition.
Even before her knee surgery, Vonn demonstrated her unwavering spirit by tackling one of skiing’s most treacherous courses, the Streif downhill in Kitzbühel, Austria. Vonn shared how daunting it was to face the steep jumps, especially with her knee in need of replacement.
This return marks not only a significant moment for Vonn but also an inspiring story of resilience and determination for athletes everywhere. Her journey illustrates that passion and perseverance can lead to new beginnings, regardless of age or past challenges, bringing a hopeful message that it is never too late to pursue one’s dreams.
In summary, Lindsey Vonn’s comeback could not only invigorate her own career but also serve as a source of inspiration for many athletes challenging their limits, suggesting a bright future for herself in competitive skiing once again.