After a week of intense medical interventions following her shocking crash at the 2026 Winter Olympics, Lindsey Vonn received a much-needed positive update: her most recent surgery was a success, paving the way for her return to the United States. The alpine skiing icon, sidelined by a horrific leg break, shared the news from her Italian hospital, offering a glimmer of hope amid her ongoing recovery.
The incident unfolded on February 8 during the women’s downhill event in Cortina d’Ampezzo, where Vonn, 41, lost control mere seconds into her run, resulting in a complex fracture of her left tibia. Airlifted to a hospital in Treviso, she has since endured multiple surgeries—four in total—to address the injury, which she described as stable but requiring extensive repair.
In a video update posted to social media on February 14, Vonn announced, “Surgery went well today! Thankfully I will be able to finally go back to the US!” This development comes after days of uncertainty, with Vonn initially immobile and facing a series of operations. U.S. Ski Team officials, including CEO Sophie Goldschmidt, have been actively involved in her care, confirming plans for her to fly home accompanied by medical personnel for additional procedures.
Vonn’s optimism shines through despite the setback. She reflected on the crash, noting that success now holds a “completely different meaning” for her, and expressed gratitude to supporters worldwide. As she transitions from Italian hospitals to U.S. facilities, Vonn’s journey underscores her legendary status in the sport, where perseverance often defines the greatest athletes.
