American downhill skier Lindsey Vonn has ruptured her left anterior cruciate ligament but remains determined to compete at the Winter Olympics in Italy. The 41-year-old athlete was transported to a Swiss hospital after a crash during the final World Cup race preceding the Games. Despite the serious injury, Vonn expressed optimism about participating in the women’s downhill event scheduled for Sunday in Cortina.
Vonn stated that her knee currently feels stable, strong, and shows no swelling. She emphasized that while her circumstances have changed dramatically since the accident, a possibility of competing still exists. The athlete acknowledged the disappointment but committed to attempting the race rather than harboring regrets about not trying.
The four-time world champion had orchestrated an impressive return to skiing in December 2024 following partial replacement of her right knee. She arrived in Cortina leading the World Cup downhill standings with two victories and three additional podium finishes, positioning herself as a gold medal contender. The crash occurred during a jump at the Alpine Ski World Cup in Crans-Montana, and she sustained additional injuries including bruising and meniscus damage.
Vonn tested her knee in Cortina on Tuesday and reported feeling no pain during the trial run. However, she acknowledged that genuine assessment will only come when skiing the actual downhill course. She compared her current condition favorably to previous injuries she has endured. Vonn indicated uncertainty about competing in the team and Super-G events occurring later in February.
The athlete reflected on her career’s unexpected turn, describing her Olympic return as an opportunity she never anticipated. Vonn maintained a resolute attitude despite mounting challenges, declaring her intent to reach the starting gate regardless of outcomes. She emphasized that reaching the start line itself would constitute a significant achievement given the circumstances surrounding her comeback.
