Even legends have off days — and for Lindsey Vonn, the 41-year-old American skiing icon, today’s mishap came not on the slopes but in the parking lot. Just days before a crucial World Cup downhill weekend and with the Milano-Cortina 2026 Olympics looming, Vonn launched a heartfelt social media appeal after her beloved, decade-old ski pole went missing.
“Someone took my pole in the parking lot today in Tarvisio,” Vonn posted on X, sharing a photo of its matching twin — a vibrant hot pink and green Leki pole customized with her initials “L.V.” on the hand strap. “If you have seen it please respond to this. Thank you.”
The pole isn’t just any piece of gear; it’s a sentimental relic. When a fan questioned why she was so invested in recovering one pole (given pros often have backups), Vonn replied simply: “They are 10 years old. They are special to me.” These poles have been with her through her pre-2019 retirement era, her 2024 comeback after partial knee replacement, and her fairy-tale resurgence this season — including a historic downhill win in Zauchensee on January 10, her 84th World Cup victory.
Here are shots of Vonn in action this season, gripping her trusty poles as she powers down the mountain:
The eye-catching fluorescent design — optimized for her aerodynamics and body fit — makes mix-ups unlikely, leading some to speculate it was taken rather than accidentally grabbed. Vonn, already qualified for her fifth Olympics and chasing history (just two wins from tying Ingemar Stenmark’s 86), remains the woman to beat in speed events despite the hiccup.
Close-up views of similar personalized poles in use highlight why this one matters so much:
Lindsey Vonn launches social media search mission after ski pole …
Vonn’s lighthearted plea has sparked an outpouring of support from fans worldwide, with many offering to keep an eye out in Tarvisio. Amid her dominant form — four podiums in four downhills this season — the incident adds a relatable, human touch to the comeback story of the century.
More powerful images of the speed queen charging toward Olympic glory:
Lindsey – Tomorrow is the 1st DH Training at Tarvisio ⛷Lindsey …
Photographs courtesy of AP, Getty Images, Reuters, and fan archives. If you’re in Tarvisio and spot a hot pink Leki with “L.V.” — you know who to DM! The internet’s on the case, and Vonn’s quest continues.
