Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy – U.S. Ski racer Lindsey Vonn underwent surgery on , to stabilize a fracture in her left leg following a crash during the women’s downhill competition at the Winter Olympics. The incident occurred as Vonn was making a bid for Olympic gold, despite recently recovering from a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).
The 41-year-old athlete was airlifted from the piste to Ca Foncello hospital in Treviso, Italy, for treatment. According to a statement released by the hospital, the surgery was performed to stabilize the fracture. Prior to the surgery, the U.S. Ski and Snowboard team reported that Vonn was in stable condition and receiving care from a team of American and Italian physicians.
The crash occurred early in Vonn’s run, while she was 13th to start. Reports indicate she clipped a flag with her right shoulder, causing her to lose balance and fall heavily. Witnesses described hearing her cries of pain immediately following the impact. The incident prompted a pause in the competition as medical personnel attended to Vonn on the slope.
This injury comes less than two weeks after Vonn sustained a tear of her ACL during a World Cup event in Switzerland on . Despite the recent ligament injury, Vonn chose to compete in the Olympics, demonstrating her determination and passion for the sport. Her decision to race with a compromised knee drew attention and raised questions about the risks athletes take to compete at the highest level.
The impact of Vonn’s crash was felt throughout the American team. Teammate Breezy Johnson, who went on to win the gold medal in the women’s downhill, was visibly emotional after witnessing the accident. Johnson shared that Vonn, even while being transported by helicopter, was reportedly cheering her on. “Her coach said she was cheering for me in the helicopter, so I hope for the best for her,” Johnson stated. “I hope that it’s not too bad. My heart aches for her. It’s such a brutal sport sometimes.”
Vonn’s sister, Karin Kildow, who was present at the event, expressed her concern and admiration for her sister’s courage. “That’s definitely the last thing we wanted to see,” Kildow told NBC’s Cara Banks. “When that happens, you’re just immediately hoping she’s okay, and it was scary. When you start to see the stretchers being put out, it’s not a good sign.” She added, “She dared greatly, and she put it all out there.”
The crash has sparked discussion about the inherent risks associated with downhill skiing, a sport known for its speed and challenging terrain. The combination of high velocity and unpredictable course conditions can lead to severe injuries, even for the most skilled athletes. The fact that Vonn attempted to compete with a recent ACL tear underscores the physical and mental fortitude required to participate in the sport at an elite level.
The surgery performed on Vonn aimed to stabilize the fracture in her left leg, which is the same leg where she had previously sustained the ACL tear. The hospital’s statement indicated the procedure was successful in addressing the fracture, but the long-term prognosis remains uncertain. Recovery from a leg fracture typically involves a period of immobilization, followed by extensive rehabilitation to regain strength and range of motion.
This incident may mark the end of a remarkable career for Vonn, who is widely considered one of the greatest skiers of all time. While she has not officially announced her retirement, the severity of the injury and her age raise questions about her ability to return to competitive skiing. Regardless of her future plans, Vonn’s legacy as a champion and an inspiration will endure.
The American ski team, and the broader Olympic community, are now focused on supporting Vonn’s recovery. The outpouring of well wishes from fellow athletes and fans highlights the respect and admiration she has earned throughout her career. As Vonn begins the long road to recovery, she will undoubtedly draw strength from the support of those around her.
