SAALBACH-HINTERGLEMM, Austria — Lindsey Vonn, a celebrated ski racer, is back in the competitive arena at the age of 40, having recently come out of retirement. Her return coincides with the world championships as she vies for a medal in the downhill event, utilizing her newly fitted titanium knee after undergoing surgery to alleviate previous injuries. Vonn’s career has been marked not only by her skiing achievements but also by various ventures during her six years away from the sport, which included launching her own skiwear and goggles lines, investing in businesses, and supporting her foundation dedicated to helping girls from underprivileged backgrounds. She also created a film about her childhood idol, Picabo Street, and hosted a reality TV show focused on dogs.
Vonn expressed that while her life has been full of projects and endeavors, her passion for ski racing remains a significant part of her identity. “I’ve lived a wild life in the last six years,” she shared, acknowledging her roles on company boards and as an advisor to various funds. However, she pointed out that her current focus on skiing is a temporary pause from her other pursuits, not a complete departure. “This is just a crazy adventure that I’m going down,” Vonn explained, highlighting the importance of seizing opportunities in life.
Criticism arose from some former European skiing champions when she announced her comeback, with remarks questioning her decision to race at an age deemed advanced for downhill skiing. Vonn responded strongly to these critiques, labeling them as “completely inappropriate and disrespectful.” She emphasized her gratitude for life’s blessings, such as friendships and ongoing projects, adding, “I love my life and I’m very lucky.”
Her motivation for returning to skiing stemmed from an unfinished chapter; injuries had forced her retirement in 2019, and she wanted to make her comeback on her own terms. After a partial knee replacement in April, she described feeling rejuvenated, almost as if she had “turned back the clock 15 years.” With her body free from pain and swelling, she is eager to reconnect with the sport on a competitive level.
Even while grappling with cold and flu symptoms, Vonn remains committed to her participation in the world championships. She experiences the challenges of racing, such as nearly losing feeling in her right arm after getting caught on a gate, but her determination to test new equipment and improve her rankings drives her forward as she sets her sights on next year’s Olympics in Milan-Cortina.
Aiming to break records, Vonn acknowledges her ambition to surpass the current mark held by Federica Brignone, who made history as the oldest woman to earn a world or Olympic podium finish at 34. “If I can get another one, I’ll take the old records. No problem,” she stated, displaying her competitive spirit. She also noted that records were set by men in the sport, advocating for women to break longstanding barriers. Vonn’s return not only seeks personal achievement but aims to redefine the possibilities for female athletes in winter sports.
