Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy – – In a stunning display of determination, three-time Olympic medalist Lindsey Vonn has confirmed she will attempt to compete at the 2026 Winter Olympics despite sustaining a completely ruptured ACL in her left knee just last week. The 41-year-old made the announcement at a press conference held at the Cortina Curling Stadium today.
Vonn suffered the injury during a World Cup downhill event in Crans Montana, Switzerland on . Describing the incident, reports indicate the crash happened quickly, with live broadcast footage failing to capture the fall in real-time. She was seen avoiding putting weight on her left leg immediately after the crash.
“I know what my chances were before the crash, and I know my chances aren’t the same as it stands today, but I know there’s still a chance and as long as there’s a chance, I will try,” Vonn stated, demonstrating a resolve that has defined her illustrious career. She acknowledged that her prospects for a podium finish have diminished, but remains undeterred.
The diagnosis revealed not only a completely ruptured ACL, but also bone bruising and some meniscal damage. Doctors are currently evaluating whether the meniscal damage was pre-existing or a result of the crash. Despite the severity of the injuries, Vonn expressed optimism following extensive therapy and consultations with medical professionals. Remarkably, she even managed to ski on Tuesday, prior to the press conference.
“Considering how my knee feels, I feel stable, I feel strong. My knee is not swollen, and with the help of a knee brace, I am confident that I can compete on Sunday,” Vonn said, referencing her planned participation in the women’s downhill race on .
Vonn is scheduled to participate in the first official women’s downhill training on , which will be streamed on Peacock and NBCOlympics.com at 5:30 a.m. ET. Her performance during this training session will be crucial in determining her status for the Games themselves.
The veteran skier also intends to compete in super-G and the new team combined event. If she were to win a medal, she would become the oldest alpine skier to do so at the Winter Olympics. Vonn has previously secured three Olympic medals: gold in downhill (2010), bronze in super-G (2010), and bronze in downhill (2018).
Vonn’s commitment to competing comes after she withdrew from the super-G race a day after the crash, stating she was “doing my best right now.” The race in Crans Montana was cancelled following her fall, with two other racers also experiencing crashes earlier in the day.
The announcement has been met with a mixture of surprise and admiration, given the significant nature of the injury and Vonn’s age. Her unwavering determination to pursue her Olympic dream, even in the face of adversity, is a testament to her dedication and passion for the sport. Vonn has previously spoken about her body image, stating she doesn’t need to be skinny, a refreshing perspective at 41 years old.
The Milan Cortina Winter Olympics are set to begin this week, and all eyes will be on Vonn as she attempts a remarkable comeback. Her participation, regardless of the outcome, will undoubtedly be a source of inspiration for athletes and fans alike.
