CRANS-MONTANA, Switzerland – U.S. Ski star Lindsey Vonn sustained a knee injury during a downhill race in Crans-Montana on Friday, , just one week before the start of the Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina. The 41-year-old was airlifted from the course following the crash, raising concerns about her participation in the Games.
Vonn lost control after landing a jump in difficult conditions characterized by low visibility, becoming entangled in the safety nets on the upper portion of the course. She initially continued, walking gingerly and favoring her left knee, before receiving medical attention and being transported by helicopter. The race was subsequently canceled after three of the first six racers crashed, highlighting the challenging conditions.
The incident occurred during what was intended to be Vonn’s final downhill race before the Olympics. She had returned to competition after a period of retirement, aiming for a fifth Olympic appearance. Vonn’s comeback has been closely watched, particularly given a titanium implant in her right knee.
Following the crash, Vonn posted on Instagram, stating that she was meeting with doctors and her team for further medical examinations. “Here’s a very difficult outcome one week before the Olympics… but if there’s one thing I know how to do, it’s a comeback,” she wrote. “My Olympic dream is not over.”
Details regarding the severity of the knee injury remain limited. However, Vonn withdrew from a World Cup super-G race following the incident, indicating the injury is impacting her ability to compete. Her coach has stated that she is still preparing to compete in the Winter Olympics, despite the crash.
The crash and subsequent injury cast a shadow over Vonn’s Olympic ambitions. She had been expected to be a prominent figure at the Milan-Cortina Games, with potential participation in the downhill, team combined event, and super-G. Prior to the injury, Vonn had demonstrated strong form this season, achieving podium finishes in multiple World Cup downhill races, including victories in St. Moritz and Zauchensee.
Vonn’s journey back to competitive skiing has been remarkable. She initially retired in , but announced her intention to race again in , rejoining the U.S. Ski team. Her return has been met with considerable interest, given her status as one of the most decorated alpine skiers in history.
A press conference is scheduled for , where Vonn is expected to provide an update on her condition and her prospects for competing at the Olympics. The women’s alpine skiing program is set to begin with the downhill in Cortina d’Ampezzo on .
The incident underscores the inherent risks associated with alpine skiing, even for athletes of Vonn’s caliber and experience. The challenging conditions in Crans-Montana contributed to multiple crashes, highlighting the demanding nature of the sport. The outcome of Vonn’s medical evaluations will be crucial in determining whether she can fulfill her ambition of competing at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.
