In a stunning display of grit and determination, U.S. alpine skiing icon Lindsey Vonn announced Tuesday that she will compete in the 2026 Winter Olympics despite suffering a completely ruptured ACL in her left knee during a terrifying crash just one week ago.
The 41-year-old legend, who came out of retirement in November 2024 for one final shot at Olympic glory, addressed reporters at a press conference in Cortina d’Ampezzo, confirming the severe injury—accompanied by bone bruising and meniscal damage—but vowing to race on.
“I know what my chances were before the crash and I know my chances aren’t the same as it stands today,” Vonn said. “But I know there’s still a chance, and as long as there’s a chance, I will try.”
The setback occurred during the women’s downhill at the Alpine Ski World Cup in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, on January 30. Vonn lost control coming out of a jump, slammed into the safety netting, and immediately favored her left leg in obvious pain. Airlifted to a hospital for evaluation, she initially posted on Instagram: “This is a very difficult outcome one week before the Olympics… but if there’s one thing I know how to do, it’s a comeback. My Olympic dream is not over.”
After further medical assessments and test runs, Vonn declared herself “confident” in her stability with the aid of a knee brace. “Considering how my knee feels, I feel stable, I feel strong, my knee is not swollen,” she added, signaling her intent to line up for the women’s downhill on February 8, with potential starts in the team combined (February 10) and super-G (February 12).
Vonn’s career has been defined by resilience amid relentless injuries. The three-time Olympic medalist (gold in downhill 2010, bronze in super-G 2010 and downhill 2018) retired in 2019 with a record 82 World Cup wins—later surpassed by teammate Mikaela Shiffrin—after battling multiple knee reconstructions, fractures, and even a knee replacement surgery in April 2024 that incorporated titanium implants.
Her remarkable return had her leading the World Cup downhill standings entering the Crans-Montana race, ahead of second-place Emma Aicher by 144 points. Now, with the Milano Cortina Games opening February 6 and running through February 22, Vonn’s participation adds massive star power and inspiration to Team USA’s alpine squad.
Fans and fellow athletes have rallied behind the comeback queen, with her defiant spirit echoing her earlier message to doubters: “Don’t be a Debbie Downer.” As one of the most decorated and beloved figures in winter sports, Vonn’s decision to push forward despite the odds has electrified the Olympic buildup.
This remains a developing story, with final medical clearance and training updates expected in the coming days. All eyes will be on the slopes as Lindsey Vonn chases what could be the ultimate chapter in her legendary career. 🇺🇸⛷️💪
