CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy – Lindsey Vonn’s remarkable attempt at an Olympic farewell ended in heartbreak Sunday, as the American skiing legend crashed during the women’s downhill race at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. Vonn, 41, suffered the injury just 13 seconds into her run, clipping a gate after launching off a jump and tumbling down the icy slope.
The crash brought a stunned silence to the grandstand, moments after the crowd had erupted in cheers as Vonn began her final Olympic downhill. Medics quickly reached Vonn and after initial treatment on the mountain, she was airlifted to a hospital for further evaluation. The race was paused for approximately 20 minutes as officials attended to the situation.
Vonn’s participation in the Games was already a story of incredible resilience. Having retired from the sport five years prior, she made a stunning return, winning several World Cup events despite undergoing knee replacement surgery. Just nine days before the Olympics began, Vonn revealed she had ruptured her ACL, yet she remained determined to compete, postponing surgery until after the Games.
“She put it all out there, so it’s really hard to see,” Vonn’s sister, Karin Kildow, said on the NBC broadcast following the airlift. “It happened quick. When that happens, you’re just immediately hoping she’s OK. It was scary because when you start seeing the stretchers being put out, it’s not a good sign.”
The 2010 Olympic downhill gold medalist had impressed in training runs, reaching a top speed of 119 km/h, demonstrating her continued competitiveness despite the significant injury. However, the challenging Olympia delle Tofane course proved unforgiving. Vonn clipped a gate with her ski pole shortly into her run, losing control and initiating the devastating fall.
Commentator Matt Hill, broadcasting on Nine, described the scene as “a disaster,” noting the palpable silence that descended upon the crowd. The crash occurred just 14 seconds into her run, ending her Olympic hopes in a matter of moments.
While Vonn’s Olympic journey concluded with this unfortunate incident, her impact on the sport remains undeniable. Her comeback from a torn ACL to even compete at this level was a testament to her dedication and athleticism. The outpouring of support following the crash underscored her enduring popularity and respect within the skiing community.
Amidst the disappointment surrounding Vonn’s crash, a new star emerged. Breezy Johnson secured the gold medal in the women’s downhill, claiming the first medal for the United States at the 2026 Milan Cortina Games. Johnson’s victory provided a bright spot for Team USA, though it was inevitably tempered by the concern for Vonn’s well-being.
The incident also prompted a pause for reflection on the risks inherent in downhill skiing. The speed and technical demands of the discipline require athletes to push their limits, and even the most experienced competitors are vulnerable to injury. Vonn’s willingness to compete with a ruptured ACL highlighted both her courage and the potential dangers of the sport.
As of , details regarding the extent of Vonn’s injuries remain limited. However, the airlift to a hospital suggests a potentially serious situation. Updates on her condition are expected in the coming hours.
Vice President JD Vance was in attendance at the Olympics on Sunday, having attended his fifth Olympic event of the Games, including the opening ceremony. Team USA’s curling duo, Cory Thiesse and Korey Dropkin, also secured a win over Estonia, keeping their medal hopes alive with a 5-3 victory. They will face Sweden in their next match.
The figure skating team event medalists are also set to be decided, with the American power couple Madison Chock and Evan Bates currently leading the competition after yesterday’s performance.
Despite the unfortunate turn of events for Vonn, the 2026 Winter Olympics continue to deliver compelling competition and inspiring stories. The Games are being streamed live on Peacock, offering comprehensive coverage of every event and athlete.
