Lindsey Vonn excited to make her World Cup ski racing comeback next weekend in Switzerland at 40 years old

BEAVER CREEK, Colo. — Lindsey Vonn has set her sights on making a comeback to World Cup ski racing next weekend, targeting super-G events in St. Moritz, Switzerland, all while approaching her 40th birthday. Vonn’s intentions extend beyond merely participating; she aims to reclaim her competitive edge.

“At this point in my career, I know that merely showing up isn’t enough,” Vonn expressed during a press conference. “Although getting back to a top competitive level might take a couple of races, I am determined to return to my previous form.”

Her last significant competition was in February 2019, where she finished third in the downhill event at the world championships held in Sweden. “When I set my mind to something, I put in 110 percent effort to achieve my goals. This isn’t something I take lightly; I’m rejoining the U.S. Ski Team seriously,” she remarked. “I’ve always believed in my capabilities, and that won’t change now.”

Early Friday, Vonn hinted at her return to the World Cup through an Instagram post sponsored by Red Bull, stating, “My body is finally back in shape. I’ve heard that St. Moritz is wonderful this time of year.” Vonn boasts an impressive record at St. Moritz, having secured five victories out of her 82 World Cup wins at this particular venue, with super-G races set for next Saturday and Sunday.

Picabo Street, a two-time Olympic medalist and former teammate, commented, “It’s incredible! I’m not at all surprised by her tenacity. I’ve seen her work hard and stay in peak condition. She is genuinely the hardest-working individual I’ve ever known.”

After facing a series of injuries, including significant knee issues that ultimately led to her retirement, Vonn underwent a partial knee replacement last April. She feels revitalized and ready to take on racing again. “I feel lucky to have this second opportunity, physically resembling my past self,” she stated. “I know my potential when my body is cooperating, and thankfully the titanium piece in my knee is holding up remarkably.”

Vonn has recently earned sufficient points to allow her entry into the World Cup circuit through lower-level competitions conducted in Copper Mountain, Colorado. This week, she has also been testing the Birds of Prey course at Beaver Creek, participating in training runs as a forerunner. Although she didn’t ski on Friday, she plans to participate in a forerunning role before the downhill event on Saturday and the super-G on Sunday.

“She’s truly living her best life,” added Street, who will serve as a commentator for NBC during the Birds of Prey races this weekend. “She deserves every moment of this.”

When Vonn stepped away from competitive skiing, she held the record for the most World Cup victories by a woman with 82. This record was recently surpassed by Mikaela Shiffrin in January 2023, who reached 99 wins, setting a new benchmark for all Alpine racers.

Ester Ledecka, a Czech ski racer and snowboarder who claimed the Olympic super-G title in 2018 while Vonn finished tied for sixth, shared her excitement about Vonn’s return. “It was a bit disheartening to see her career come to an end that way. She should retire on her own terms, not due to physical limitations,” Ledecka expressed. “It’s wonderful to see her back, feeling well, and happy. I believe she will be incredibly fast. Her presence is a joy for all of us.”