American skiing legend Lindsey Vonn delivered a message of resilience and gratitude following her fourth surgery to address a complex tibia fracture sustained in a dramatic crash at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
In an emotional Instagram post shared on February 14, Vonn, 41, confirmed that the procedure “went well” and that she has been cleared to return to the United States for continued recovery and further updates on her injury.
Vonn, who crashed just 13 seconds into her women’s downhill run on February 8 in Cortina d’Ampezzo and was airlifted from the course, used the opportunity to reflect deeply on her mindset and career philosophy. She asked fans not to feel sadness or sympathy, instead embracing empathy, love, and support.
“Please, don’t be sad,” Vonn wrote. “Empathy, love and support I welcome with an open heart, but please not sadness or sympathy. I hope instead it gives you strength to keep fighting, because that is what I am doing and that is what I will continue to do. Always.”
The five-time Olympic medalist emphasized that she entered the race fully aware of the risks inherent in elite alpine skiing. “I chose to take a risk. Every skier in that starting gate took the same risk,” she stated, adding that she prefers the potential for a crash while pushing her limits over the regret of holding back.
Vonn described her pre-crash condition as peak form—physically stronger than in many past seasons and mentally “perfect”: clear, focused, hungry, aggressive, yet calm. She referenced her strong World Cup downhill performances this season as preparation for the Olympics.
“The ride was worth the fall,” Vonn declared. “When I close my eyes at night I don’t have regrets and the love I have for skiing remains. I am still looking forward to the moment when I can stand on the top of the mountain once more. And I will.”
Vonn expressed appreciation for the outpouring of prayers and support from fans worldwide, signing off with “We really appreciate all your prayers and support 💙.” She plans to provide more detailed injury information upon her return home.
Vonn’s update has resonated widely, highlighting the unbreakable spirit that defined her record-breaking career.
