Lindsey Vonn, 41, has qualified for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina in February, marking what she has stated will be her final competition.
A Remarkable Return
Vonn’s qualification follows a compelling comeback after a seven-year hiatus from top-level skiing. Her recent performances have already captured attention, including a World Cup downhill win in St. Moritz, Switzerland, on December 12 – her first since 2018.
This will be Vonn’s fifth Olympic appearance. She previously won gold in the downhill at the 2010 Vancouver Games, and bronze medals in the super-G in Vancouver and the downhill in PyeongChang in 2018.
Breaking Barriers
Vonn’s win in St. Moritz established her as the oldest woman to win a World Cup race, surpassing the previous record by seven years. She is also poised to become the first athlete in her 40s to lead the U.S. Alpine skiing squad.
Sophie Goldschmidt, U.S. Ski & Snowboard’s president and CEO, stated, “Lindsey qualifying for the 2026 Olympic team is a testament to her resilience and dedication, and the remarkable results she’s delivered on the World Cup this season.”
While Vonn has secured her place on the Olympic team for the upcoming games, she has not yet officially qualified for the super-G event. However, she currently ranks as the fastest American and third in the world in that discipline, making qualification a likely next step.
Frequently Asked Questions
What has Lindsey Vonn accomplished in the Olympics?
Lindsey Vonn has won gold in the downhill at the 2010 Vancouver Games, and bronze medals in the super-G in Vancouver and the downhill in PyeongChang in 2018.
How old was Lindsey Vonn when she won her most recent World Cup race?
Lindsey Vonn was 41 years old when she won the downhill race in St. Moritz, Switzerland, on December 12.
Has Lindsey Vonn retired before?
A column published in February 2019 essentially served as a sendoff for Vonn, but she has since returned to competitive skiing and qualified for the 2026 Olympics.
What does Vonn’s comeback say about the limits of athletic achievement and the power of perseverance?
