Lindsey Vonn Leaves Italy: Recovery Continues in the USA After Leg Injury

Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy – American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn is preparing to return to the United States after undergoing multiple surgeries in Italy following a high-speed crash during the women’s downhill competition at the February 8th Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. The 41-year-old Vonn, who remarkably returned to competition after nearly six years of retirement, sustained a complex tibia fracture in her left leg during the race.

Vonn was discharged from the Ca’ Foncello Hospital in Treviso, Italy, on Sunday and transported to Marco Polo Airport in Venice, according to reports from the Italian news agency Ansa. She left a heartwarming gesture for the hospital staff, donating the numerous stuffed animals she received during her stay to the children’s ward.

The veteran skier shared a video on social media offering a glimpse into her recovery process, including scenes of having her hair washed and receiving meals in her hospital bed. “Slowly getting back to life, back to basics and the simple things that matter most. Smiling. Laughing. Loving,” Vonn posted on Instagram, expressing gratitude to her family, friends, team, and the medical personnel who cared for her.

The crash, occurring just 13 seconds into her run, sent shockwaves through the sporting world. Vonn, already competing with a torn ACL in her left knee and a partial titanium replacement in her right knee, was hooked on a gate, resulting in a violent fall. Sophie Goldschmidt, president and CEO of the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association, described the scene as shocking, noting the inherent danger in alpine sports and the extraordinary physical demands placed on athletes.

“The impact, the silence, everyone was just in shock. And you could tell it was a really nasty injury,” Goldschmidt said. “There’s a lot of danger in doing all sorts of Alpine sports but it gives more of an appreciation for how superhuman these athletes are. I mean, putting your body on the line, going at those speeds, the physicality.”

Vonn has already undergone four surgeries in Italy to address the tibia fracture, with at least two more planned upon her return to the United States. Goldschmidt confirmed that the U.S. Ski Team’s medical staff is coordinating Vonn’s continued recovery and will accompany her back to the U.S. For further treatment.

Despite the severity of her injury, Vonn expressed a remarkable lack of regret. “I don’t have regrets,” she wrote on social media. “The ride was worth the fall. When I close my eyes at night I don’t have regrets and the love I have for skiing remains. I am still looking forward to the moment when I can stand on the top of the mountain once more. And I will.”

Vonn’s comeback story captivated audiences, as she returned to Olympic competition after a prolonged hiatus. She had ruptured her ACL in a World Cup race just nine days before the Olympic downhill event, yet remained determined to compete, utilizing a knee brace for support. Her resilience and unwavering spirit resonated with fans and fellow athletes alike.

The injury brings an abrupt end to Vonn’s inspiring return to the slopes. While her future in competitive skiing remains uncertain, her courage and determination have left an indelible mark on the sport. Vonn’s message to her supporters – a plea for empathy and support rather than sadness or sympathy – underscores her positive outlook and unwavering resolve.

“Please, don’t be sad,” Vonn said. “Empathy, love and support I welcome with an open heart, but please not sadness or sympathy.”

The timeline for Vonn’s full recovery remains unclear, but her focus is now on returning to the United States and continuing her rehabilitation process. The skiing world will undoubtedly be watching and wishing her a swift and complete recovery.