The skiing legend Optimistic of Being 'in a good place' for the upcoming Winter Olympics

American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of claiming a podium spot for the fourth time in her last five World Cup races.

The veteran athlete, who last week set a record by becoming the most senior racer to win a downhill World Cup winner, took the bronze position in the super giant slalom in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her 142nd career World Cup podium finish.

Strong Return in Val d'Isere

Competing at the French Alps resort for the first occasion in eight years, Vonn finished the course in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was 0.36 seconds behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing second place.

"I didn't quite have enough direction on the initial jump," Vonn said. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm happy with my performance today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was overly cautious."

This result was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere during the event, having also taken third in the downhill race on Saturday.

An Incredible Return from Retirement

Vonn stepped away from competition in February 2019 as a result of ongoing knee problems. However, she returned to racing in late 2024 after a significant orthopedic procedure.

With just over six weeks remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are set to run from 6-22 February, Vonn's form are highly promising.

She has an Olympic gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is strongly positioned to compete for the United States at the 2026 Games.

"When we get to Cortina, I will be in a good place," Vonn affirmed.

Aiming for Further Glory

Alongside her Games aspirations, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has won over a professional journey spanning two decades.

She presently enjoys a 69-point lead at the top of the downhill World Cup rankings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.

This season's World Cup circuit features a total of nine races taking place before the circuit finale in Norway on March 21st, 2026.