US ski star Lindsey Vonn has reportedly been discharged from hospital in Italy, approximately one week after a crash ended her Olympic comeback.
Vonn, 41, was airlifted off the piste after crashing just 13 seconds into her final run in the women’s downhill final in Cortina last Sunday (8 February). The Team USA athlete was heard screaming after the accident, as she was surrounded by medical personnel. She was initially taken to a hospital in Cortina, before being transferred to a larger medical facility in Treviso.
Reuters news agency reports that the skier has been discharged and has headed for Treviso airport, citing two sources close to the matter.
Vonn said on Saturday that her fourth surgery of the week “went well”, adding in a post on Instagram: “Thankfully I will be able to finally travel back to the US! Once I’m back I will supply you more updates and info about my injury.” She suffered a complex tibia fracture in the crash, which orthopaedic specialists estimate has a recovery time of eight to 11 months. Another operation is scheduled in the United States.
Vonn acknowledged the risks inherent in the sport, stating, “When I think back on my crash, I didn’t stand in the starting gate unaware of the potential consequences. I knew what I was doing. I chose to take a risk. Every skier in that starting gate took the same risk. Because even if you are the strongest person in the world, the mountain always holds the cards.”
She was taking part in the Olympic final just over a week after rupturing her ACL in a crash at a World Cup event in Switzerland. Vonn expressed continued passion for the sport, stating, “The love I have for skiing remains. I am still looking forward to the moment when I can stand on the top of the mountain once more. And I will.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How ancient is Lindsey Vonn?
Lindsey Vonn is 41 years old.
Where did the crash occur?
The crash occurred in Cortina, Italy, during the women’s downhill final.
What type of injury did Lindsey Vonn sustain?
Lindsey Vonn suffered a complex tibia fracture in the crash.
Given the demanding recovery timeline and the physical toll of elite competition, what might the future hold for this accomplished athlete?
