In a direct and poignant appeal to her supporters, Lindsey Vonn asked fans to replace sadness with strength following the successful completion of her fourth surgery after a terrifying Olympic crash.
The update came via Instagram on February 14, where the 41-year-old skiing superstar revealed the operation on her left leg’s complex tibia fracture “went well.” She expressed relief at finally receiving medical clearance to return to the United States.
Vonn’s crash occurred early in the women’s downhill race on February 8, leading to immediate airlift and multiple procedures in an Italian hospital. Rather than dwell on setbacks, she reframed the narrative around choice, risk, and passion.
“I knew what I was doing. I chose to take a risk,” Vonn wrote. “I will always take the risk of crashing while giving it my all, rather than not ski to my potential and have regret.”
She urged: “Please, don’t feel sad for me… The ride was worth the fall. When I close my eyes at night I don’t have regrets.”
Vonn highlighted her peak physical and mental state pre-crash and reaffirmed her enduring love for the sport. She thanked fans profusely for their support as she transitions to U.S.-based recovery.
Her candid words have inspired widespread admiration across sports media and social platforms.
