American alpine skiing icon Lindsey Vonn added yet another historic chapter to her legendary career on January 10, 2026, claiming her 84th FIS Alpine World Cup win — and her second downhill victory of the season — in challenging conditions at Zauchensee, Austria. The 41-year-old veteran dominated the shortened downhill race, finishing in a time of 1:06.24 to edge out Norway’s Kajsa Vickhoff Lie by 0.37 seconds, with fellow American Jacqueline Wiles taking third place 0.48 seconds behind.
The race, impacted by heavy snowfall that canceled prior training and forced a lowered start, tested competitors’ adaptability. Vonn, starting from bib No. 6, leaned on her vast experience to navigate the soft, trackless snow with aggressive lines and precise execution. “I honestly thought with my start number I had no chance because there’s so much snow and there wasn’t really a track,” she told reporters post-race. “I had to risk a lot with my line to stay in the hunt… I’m happy with the way I executed.”
This triumph marks Vonn’s fourth podium in four downhill races this season, extending her lead in the discipline standings and reinforcing her status as the favorite for the women’s downhill at the upcoming Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics (February 6–22), where she aims to compete in her fifth Games.
The victory carries extra emotional weight for Vonn, who has rebuilt her relationship with her father, Alan Kildow, over recent years after a long period of estrangement. Following the win, Vonn shared a lighthearted moment from a post-race phone call with her dad during an interview.
When asked about her father’s reaction to her remarkable form at 41, Vonn laughed and revealed his humorous, affectionate comment: “He said that’s not bad for an old woman.”
The playful remark underscores the pride and support Kildow now openly expresses for his daughter’s extraordinary comeback. Vonn has previously noted how important this family encouragement is during a demanding Olympic season, especially as she maintains peak performance after knee surgery and years away from the sport.
Here are some standout moments from Vonn’s triumphant run in Zauchensee:
And a cherished family memory — Lindsey with her father Alan Kildow:
Lindsey Vonn Usa Her Father Alan Editorial Stock Photo – Stock …
With the Olympics just weeks away and Vonn skiing at an elite level, her blend of skill, resilience, and family support continues to inspire. As she put it herself: “It’s just so fun to go fast!”
