Lindsey Vonn, an iconic figure in the world of alpine skiing, has expressed her contentment with being recognized as the second-best female skier in history, trailing only Mikaela Shiffrin. This statement comes in anticipation of her sensational comeback to World Cup competition after a six-year hiatus from the sport. Vonn’s return is set against the beautiful backdrop of Cortina d’Ampezzo, the Italian resort that is also slated to host the 2026 Winter Olympics. The Aspen, Colorado native has her sights set on continuing her illustrious career in this splendid location, showcasing her resilience and passion for skiing.
One notable absence from the upcoming skiing events, however, is five-time overall Crystal Globe champion Mikaela Shiffrin. Currently on the sidelines due to surgery, Shiffrin’s recovery has made fans and competitors alike eager for her return. Despite her accomplishments, Vonn has made it clear that she is more than happy to concede the title of the greatest female skier to her younger counterpart. In a conversation with CNN, Vonn reflected on Shiffrin’s significant achievements, describing them as uplifting not only for the sport of skiing but for women’s sports in general. Vonn stated, “I’m just really excited for Mikaela and what she’s been able to achieve,” underscoring the mutual respect that exists between these two champions.
Throughout her illustrious career, Vonn has earned a staggering eight downhill and five Super-G Crystal Globes. As she prepares for her competition comeback, the skiing community is filled with anticipation about whether she can recapture her previous form. Vonn remains hopeful, revealing that she is now pain-free following her knee replacement surgery earlier this year. This new lease on her physical health has injected Vonn with optimism, as she no longer suffers the debilitating pain she endured for many years. Reflecting on her past struggles, she commented on how much of her focus used to revolve around her physical limitations. “I want to experience ski racing again with a healthy body to really enjoy it,” Vonn expressed, hinting at her longing to rediscover the joy of skiing without the constant reminder of her injuries.
The transformation she has experienced post-surgery indeed feels monumental. Vonn describes her new state as “brand new,” appreciating the freedom from chronic pain that had previously overshadowed her endeavors. “It is like I am brand new again and it’s such an amazing feeling,” she enthused. The emotional and mental weight that accompanied her past injuries has lifted, enabling Vonn to focus purely on her love for skiing moving forward. With her sights set on her performance with renewed enthusiasm, she seeks to embrace the sport in a fresher light, free from external pressures and expectations.
Interestingly, Vonn has always maintained a strong focus on personal joy rather than external validation. Even throughout her illustrious career filled with accolades and records, she often faced skepticism and criticism. However, she has learned to channel that energy into determination, refusing to be defined by those detractors. “I feel that there’s a lot less weight on my shoulders,” Vonn noted. Her decision to ski purely for love rather than for accolades or to prove critics wrong is a testament to her evolving outlook on the sport.
As Vonn prepares for the upcoming 2024/25 Alpine skiing season, she is set to showcase her talent on platforms like Webpressnews and discovery+. Her journey serves as an inspiring narrative of resilience, evolution, and passion that resonates with many athletes and fans alike. She continues to embody the spirit of skiing not just as a competitor, but as an ambassador for the sport, focusing on joy, community, and shared experiences. Whether or not she breaks records or achieves new milestones, her dedication to her craft will always shine through.
