Lindsey Vonn continued to push the boundaries of recovery and competition on Friday, completing her first women’s downhill training run just one week after tearing her ACL during a World Cup race. The Olympic gold medalist skied at the Tofane Alpine Skiing Centre in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, as she prepares for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.
Wearing a brace on her left knee and racing with the No. 10 bib, Vonn successfully made it down the demanding 1.6-mile course despite foggy conditions that delayed training earlier in the day. She finished the run in 1:40.33 and crossed the finish line without any visible signs of physical restriction. Although she briefly went offline and nearly missed several gates, she maintained control and completed the course safely.
Vonn’s Historic Cortina Success and Relentless Mindset Fuel Daring Injury Comeback
At 41 years old, Vonn remains one of the most accomplished skiers in Cortina’s history, having recorded 12 World Cup victories at the venue, including six downhill wins. Her aggressive skiing style during training reflected a continued competitive mindset, even in the wake of a severe injury that typically sidelines athletes for close to a year.
Lindsey VonnVonn addressed the injury directly on social media, stating that her ACL was fully ruptured and emphasizing that her determination to compete should not be mistaken for a lack of understanding about the injury. She explained that while the situation may appear impossible to some, she remains committed to testing her limits and managing the injury responsibly.
The training session followed public attention earlier in the week after Vonn shared a video of herself squatting with a barbell in the gym. Her ability to train comes despite an extensive history of knee issues, including a partial right knee replacement in 2024, further highlighting the physical challenges she continues to face.
Vonn Presses On Toward Sunday’s Downhill, Embracing Risk With Unwavering Resolve
After completing Friday’s run, Vonn briefly celebrated with Team USA teammate Breezy Johnson at the finish area. She declined interview requests but responded “Yup” when asked if she was feeling fine. The women’s alpine downhill race is scheduled for Sunday, and Vonn is expected to compete.
Earlier in the week, Vonn acknowledged that her chances of winning had changed following the injury. Still, she made clear that she intends to compete as long as an opportunity remains, reinforcing her long-standing reputation for resilience and determination on the world stage.
