Featured Image: Lindsey Vonn in Kitzbühel Photo: Joerg Mitter / Red Bull Content Pool
After five years away from the World Cup circuit, Lindsey Vonn is training for a highly anticipated return to ski racing. The 40-year-old former speed queen, who now competes with an artificial knee joint, has set her sights on competing at the highest level once again. With 82 World Cup victories and an array of Olympic and World Championship titles, Vonn’s return is not just about participating—it’s about winning.
A Promising Start in Copper Mountain
Vonn recently trained with the U.S. Ski Team at Copper Mountain, marking her first real speed training since her retirement. Stefan Abplanalp (SUI), who helped Vonn recover from injury and return to dominance in 2015, closely observed her progress.
“Lindsey is in great form,” Abplanalp shared. “On the slopes, during inspections, and after training, she was just like her old self—motivated and focused. I saw her confidence grow with every run.”
Her training began on moderate terrain to assess the impact of turns and forces on her knee. According to Abplanalp, her performance improved steadily, with several turns showcasing her trademark precision and determination.
Preparing for St. Moritz
Vonn’s immediate goal is to reduce her FIS points to qualify for a World Cup return. Unlike Marcel Hirscher, whose wildcard start bypassed such requirements, Vonn must earn a competitive standing to rejoin speed racing. Currently, she holds 104 FIS points in downhill and 93 in super-G, far above the threshold for elite competition.
To meet this challenge, Vonn is expected to compete in FIS races at Copper Mountain in early December. The races, featuring strong fields, could provide the opportunity to lower her points and gain eligibility for a December World Cup debut in St. Moritz, Switzerland.
The Road Ahead: Challenges and Support
Skeptics question whether a comeback is possible at her age and with an artificial knee. Austrian legend Franz Klammer and Swiss icon Bernhard Russi have both expressed doubts, citing the physical toll of speed events.
However, Abplanalp remains optimistic. “Lindsey has an incredible work ethic and an environment that supports her success,” he said. “The sport hasn’t changed much in the last five years. With her experience from nearly 400 World Cup races, she knows how to win.”
A Cautious Timeline
While St. Moritz is her goal, Vonn is also considering a slower timeline. As a forerunner in Beaver Creek in mid-December, she plans to test her readiness without pressure. A competitive return in 2025 remains a possibility if she feels she cannot yet contend with the world’s best.
“Lindsey will only come back when she believes she can compete at the highest level,” Abplanalp emphasized. Her commitment to excellence continues to define her journey, even as she navigates new challenges.
Will Vonn Rewrite the Record Books?
The next chapter of Vonn’s storied career is unfolding, and fans are eagerly watching to see if she can make history once more. Whether it’s this season or next, her comeback is poised to inspire, reminding everyone why she remains one of the greatest skiers of all time.
Information sourced from Blick.ch.
About the Author: SR Staff Report
