Lindsey Vonn Defies Time, Qualifies for Winter Olympics

Lindsey Vonn, the renowned Alpine skier, has made headlines once again by qualifying for the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics in February 2026. At 41 years old, Vonn has announced that this will be her fifth and final Olympic appearance.

Lindsay Vonn’s Impressive Comeback

Vonn’s return to competitive skiing has been remarkable. After a seven-year break as a top-level competitor, she has quickly reestablished herself among the elite. In the past two weeks, she has showcased her skills on the international stage, returning to the podium in four of her first five races this season.

Recent Achievements

• Victory in downhill at St. Moritz, Switzerland, on December 12, 2023.
• This win was her first World Cup victory since 2018.
• Vonn’s age is noteworthy; she became the oldest woman to win a World Cup race.

Her recent win in St. Moritz made her the first World Cup winner with titanium implants in her right knee. Vonn is also poised to challenge the stereotype of age in sports as she aims to lead the U.S. Alpine skiing contingent in 2026.

Olympic Legacy and Future Goals

Vonn previously won a gold medal in the downhill and a bronze in super-G at the 2010 Vancouver Games. She added another bronze in downhill at the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics. Despite battling injuries, her determination has remained unwavering.

Although Vonn has not yet officially qualified for the Olympics in the super-G event, she currently ranks as the fastest American and No. 3 in the world. This positions her favorably for qualification.

Statements on Her Journey

Sophie Goldschmidt, the president and CEO of U.S. Ski & Snowboard, praised Vonn’s resilience and dedication. She noted that Vonn’s current success is a testament to her ability to rise to the occasion, delivering impressive results consistently throughout the World Cup season.

As the 2026 Olympics approach, all eyes will be on Lindsey Vonn. Her story is not just about past achievements; it’s a continuous journey marked by competitiveness and the spirit of overcoming challenges.