Lindsey Vonn’s Comeback at the Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn, the iconic American skier, is gearing up for a momentous return to competition at the Winter Olympics next weekend in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, as she aims for an Olympic medal at the age of 41. Vonn’s comeback, which comes nearly six years after her retirement, is particularly poignant given her deep ties to this scenic resort, fondly dubbed “the Queen of the Dolomites.” Despite grappling with a left knee injury, her determination remains steadfast.
“The Olympics being held in Cortina was a significant factor in my decision to return,” Vonn explained before her injury. “If it were anywhere else, I probably wouldn’t have pushed myself to make this comeback. But something special about this place keeps drawing me back, and it feels like one last chance to compete here.”
Reflecting on Early Career Challenges
Reflecting on her early career, Vonn recalled her first foray into Cortina back in January 2002, just before the Salt Lake City Olympics, where she faced setbacks, including failing to finish her inaugural World Cup super-G race.
“I was skiing well but couldn’t quite put it all together,” she admitted. “Being nervous about making the Olympic team didn’t help. I think I didn’t ski badly, but it just wasn’t my moment.”
Following that experience, Vonn faced another setback in 2003, as she was demoted to the Europa Cup—the developmental circuit for skiing—while her competitors were gaining prominence.
“I got sent back, and I felt like my commitment to speed wasn’t there yet. I was still figuring out my place in the sport,” she said.
This setback turned into motivation, prompting her to engage a physical trainer to enhance her performance.
A Pivotal Moment in Cortina
When she returned to Cortina in 2004, everything changed. Vonn achieved her first-ever World Cup podium finish, taking fifth place in the initial downhill, then moving up to third the following day, just behind Olympic champion Carole Montillet.
“Cortina was a pivotal moment for me. It solidified my confidence and routine,” she noted.
This breakthrough led to a memorable video session with her longtime coach, Alex Hoedlmoser, who encouraged her and helped her realize her potential.
While her first victory in Cortina occurred in 2008, the slopes of Cortina have since become a second home. Vonn expressed,
“Cortina is like Lake Louise for me; I know it well, and it brings a comfort that goes beyond mere competition. Regardless of my wins or losses, that bond will never change.”
Record-Breaking Achievements and Personal Loss
A particularly notable moment in her career came in 2015 when she broke the long-standing record of 63 World Cup victories, originally set by Annemarie Moser-Pröll, during a race in Cortina. Surrounded by her family—a rarity in her competitive career—this moment was etched in her memory.
“That weekend was exceptional since my parents and sister were there. It’s a cherished memory, especially now that my mom is no longer with us,” Vonn reflected, acknowledging the loss of her mother to ALS in 2022.
Facing New Challenges
However, the journey has not been without its challenges. Vonn faced the harsh reality of retirement in 2019 due to relentless pain, which followed a partial knee replacement. Now, as she prepares to compete in Cortina once again, she hopes to add new victories to her legacy—all contingent on her knee’s ability to hold up under pressure.
Vonn is ready to face this new chapter, determined to leave her mark once more at the venue that has held so many important memories for her.
Conclusion
As she sets her sights on the upcoming Olympic Games, Vonn’s story of resilience, ambition, and nostalgia reflects the enduring spirit of an athlete who has truly become a legend in her sport.
