Lindsey Vonn Enters Recovery After Successful Surgery on Fractured Leg from Olympic Crash
Treviso, Italy – February 9, 2026 – In a powerful testament to resilience, U.S. skiing legend Lindsey Vonn is now stable and beginning her recovery journey following orthopedic surgery to stabilize a fracture in her left leg. The injury came from a devastating crash during the women’s downhill at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, but fans’ prayers appear to have been answered as the 41-year-old icon shifts focus to healing.
The incident unfolded dramatically on Sunday, February 8, when Vonn—competing in her improbable Olympic comeback after an eight-year retirement—clipped a gate just 13 seconds into her run on the Olympia delle Tofane course in Cortina d’Ampezzo. She tumbled hard, screaming in pain as the race paused. Medical teams rushed to her aid, and she was airlifted by helicopter first to a local clinic, then transferred to Ca’ Foncello Hospital in Treviso, about two hours away.
There, a multidisciplinary team of American and Italian physicians treated her. In the afternoon, Vonn underwent successful orthopedic surgery to stabilize the left leg fracture—the same leg where she had suffered a complete ACL rupture just nine days earlier in a World Cup event in Crans-Montana, Switzerland. Despite the torn ACL, Vonn had consulted doctors, declared herself ready, and pushed forward, embodying her unbreakable spirit.
Ca’ Foncello Hospital confirmed the procedure in a statement: “Lindsey Vonn underwent orthopaedic surgery to stabilise a fracture in her left leg.” U.S. Ski & Snowboard quickly followed with an update: “Lindsey Vonn sustained an injury, but is in stable condition and in good hands with a team of American and Italian physicians.” No life-threatening complications have been reported, and she is now monitored closely as she transitions into rehabilitation.
Vonn’s journey to these Olympics has been nothing short of inspirational. After retiring in 2019 amid chronic knee issues—including a partial right knee replacement—she announced her return in 2024, qualified for the Games, and became the oldest downhill skier to compete at this level. Her decision to race despite the fresh ACL tear drew worldwide admiration for her grit, with Vonn posting earlier: “If there’s one thing I know how to do, it’s a comeback.”
The skiing community, fans, and even fellow athletes have rallied with an outpouring of support on social media, sharing messages of strength, prayers, and praise for her fighter mentality. Many call her attempt one of the most courageous stories of the 2026 Games.
As Vonn begins the long road to recovery—likely involving rest, physical therapy, and gradual strengthening—supporters continue sending love and encouragement. The three-time Olympic medalist (including downhill gold in 2010) has proven time and again that setbacks don’t define her.
Get well soon, Lindsey—your courage continues to inspire millions. The road ahead may be tough, but if anyone can conquer it, it’s you. 🇺🇸
