Alpine skiing legend Lindsey Vonn has publicly applauded fellow Olympic icon Michael Phelps for his ongoing efforts in mental health awareness, following his recent recognition with a major honor.
Phelps, the most decorated Olympian in history with 23 gold medals, has long been candid about his personal battles with depression and feelings of emptiness despite his extraordinary achievements in the pool. His struggles peaked after the 2004 and 2008 Olympics, leading to a pivotal moment in 2014 when he sought therapy following a DUI arrest. Since then, Phelps has emerged as a leading voice for mental health, using his platform and foundation to encourage open conversations and reduce stigma.
Recently, Phelps was named the recipient of Sports Illustrated’s 2025 Muhammad Ali Legacy Award for his impactful advocacy work. In reflecting on the honor, the 40-year-old shared how hearing from others facing similar challenges inspired him to continue speaking out and even motivated aspects of his career comeback.
Responding to Phelps’ message on social media, Vonn, herself a trailblazer in winter sports, wrote: “You’ve done so much for mental health and awareness! Thank you for continuing to use your voice for good. You deserve this!!”
At 41, Vonn continues to make headlines with her own inspiring return to competitive skiing. After retiring in 2019 due to persistent injuries, she underwent partial knee replacement surgery in 2024 and staged a remarkable comeback. In the 2024-25 season, she secured her first podium in seven years. Building on that momentum, Vonn kicked off the 2025-26 World Cup season with a historic downhill victory in St. Moritz earlier this month, becoming the oldest skier ever to win a World Cup race and claiming her 83rd career triumph.
Vonn, who earned Olympic gold in downhill at the 2010 Vancouver Games and excelled across all five alpine disciplines, has often spoken about her own mental health experiences. Her perseverance through injuries and retirement has motivated athletes worldwide, as she now sets her sights on the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.
Both Phelps and Vonn exemplify how top athletes can channel personal challenges into positive change, inspiring the next generation to prioritize well-being alongside competition.
