The most decorated female skier of all time is making a highly anticipated return to the World Cup for the 40th time. So many stories about her come from there into return to sports. When conversed, Lindsey Vonn says: “If it was a dumb idea, I wouldn’t be doing it.”
After retiring in 2019, Vonn has trained rigorously for this moment. At 39, she knows well about what is involved: potential dangers, and physical and mental strain. And she is not daunted by the critics.
“Every move I have done from the start of the comeback is calculated,” Vonn explained. “I have used top trainers, done tremendous physical therapy, and put my skills to the test on the slope. I wouldn’t return unless I knew that I would be ready.”
Reward with Risk
The comeback raised some eyebrows among critics, especially with Vonn’s extraordinarily high history of knee injuries and surgeries–but, for Olympic gold medalist Vonn, it represents a chance to inspire others.
I want people to realize that age and setbacks can’t define what you could achieve,” she said. “Skiing’s my passion, and as long as I can go out there and race, safely, at the highest level, then I will continue if I can.”
She has the full backing of her team and longstanding coach Alex Hoedelmoser is never tired of praising that trait in Lindsey about her discipline and focus: “Lindsey’s passion is unmatched. She’s coming back not only to compete but to win,” he said.
The return of Vonn is far from merely a personal achievement; she now has the chance of cementing her legacy. Having collected 82 World Cup victories, she remains four short of the all-time record from Swedish skier, Ingemar Stenmark.
“Every move I have done from the start of the comeback is calculated,” Vonn explained. “I have used top trainers, done tremendous physical therapy, and put my skills to the test on the slope. I wouldn’t return unless I knew that I would be ready.
Reward with Risk
The comeback has been questioned by critics with the risks that come along with it, especially after Vonn’s history of knee injuries and surgeries. But for the Olympic gold medalist, this is an opportunity to inspire others.
I want people to realize that age and setbacks can’t define what you can achieve,” she said. “Skiing’s my passion, and provided I can continue to race safely and at a top level, then I won’t stop.
Her decision has been supported by her team, long-time coach Alex Hoedlmoser who has not stopped praising Lindsey and her discipline and focus: “Lindsey’s drive is unmatched. She’s coming back not just to compete but to win,” he said.
Vonn’s return is far from a personal milestone; she has the chance to cement her legacy. She currently holds 82 World Cup victories and is four shy of all-time record holder Ingemar Stenmark, a Swedish skier.
“If I can get back on the podium, it’s not just about breaking records,” Vonn said. “It’s about showing that perseverance pays off.”
The Road Ahead
Vonn’s comeback will be starting at the World Cup’s downhill race at Lake Louise, Canada. The venue has always been a place of Vonn’s dominance, and fans and analysts alike would love to see if the preparations and determination will result in another historic performance.
Vonn knows the stakes are sky-high, but her self-confidence has not been at all dented. “The risks are calculated but the reward is worth it,” she said.
