As the 2025-2026 FIS Alpine Ski World Cup season races toward its conclusion, one question is igniting passionate debate among fans worldwide: Is Lindsey Vonn still the undisputed queen of alpine skiing, or has a new generation claimed the throne?
At 41, Vonn has staged one of the most remarkable comebacks in sports history. After retiring in 2019 due to persistent knee injuries, she returned in late 2024 and immediately made headlines by becoming the oldest skier (man or woman) ever to win a World Cup race. This season, she has dominated the women’s downhill discipline, leading the standings with 400 points after six races—including two victories (St. Moritz and Zauchensee), a second-place finish, and consistent podium appearances that kept her off the podium zero times in downhill events pre-Olympics.
Her nearest rival, Germany’s Emma Aicher, sits at 306 points, with Kira Weidle-Winkelmann (GER) in third at 256—giving Vonn a substantial 94-point cushion with just three races remaining. Experts note her unmatched gliding speed, tactical precision, and mental toughness have made her nearly untouchable on key sections of the course.
Vonn’s resurgence has reignited comparisons with fellow American legend Mikaela Shiffrin, who has shattered records in technical events and holds the all-time World Cup wins mark (107+). While Shiffrin excels in slalom and giant slalom—earning her third Olympic gold in slalom at Milano Cortina 2026—Vonn remains the benchmark for speed disciplines, with 44 downhill wins (the most ever) and a legacy built on raw power and resilience.
Fans are divided. Supporters hail Vonn as the ultimate GOAT for her trailblazing dominance, fearless style, and inspirational return against the odds—proving age and adversity are no match for determination. Others argue Shiffrin’s consistency across disciplines, record-breaking tally, and recent Olympic triumphs edge her ahead in the overall pantheon.
With the Crystal Globe for downhill within reach and Vonn’s podium streak fueling the fire, the debate is far from over. Whether you’re team Vonn for her iconic speed legacy or favor Shiffrin’s technical mastery—or even root for rising talents like Aicher or Sofia Goggia—this season has reminded everyone why alpine skiing captivates the world.
So, settle it in the comments: Is Lindsey Vonn still your all-time favorite skier? Or has someone else taken the crown? 👑 Drop your pick, tag a fellow fan, and let’s hear the arguments! ⛷️🏔️
