COPPER MOUNTAIN, Colo. — Recent buzz on the mountain indicates that Lindsey Vonn, at 40, still possesses the speed to compete in downhill skiing, potentially even winning races. On a chilly Friday morning, she showcased her skills on the Copper Mountain speed course, navigating through the snow generated by makers and demonstrating noteworthy agility. Although there was no timer to clock her runs, her technique was on display as she assumed a tucked position to enhance her aerodynamics, tackling a few gates during high-speed training.
Vonn is scheduled to participate in a series of lower-tier FIS downhill and super-G events this weekend, with the goal of achieving favorable results that would enable her to lower her ranking. This would pave the way for her possible entry into World Cup races this season, thanks to a new wild-card policy. This move could mark the first steps toward her return to the prestigious World Cup circuit, with hopes of making a podium appearance.
Retired ski racer Ted Ligety expressed confidence in Vonn’s capabilities, stating, “I honestly think she will win. From what I’ve heard, she’s been incredibly fast in training. Some of the women on the World Cup circuit may be in for a surprise when they have to compete against Lindsey Vonn again.”
After her practice, Vonn refrained from official comments but engaged with fellow competitors both on the slopes and in the lodge, where her dog, Lucy, caught everyone’s attention. When Vonn left the sport, she held the record for the most World Cup race victories by a woman at 82, just shy of the all-time Alpine record of 86, held by Swedish legend Ingemar Stenmark. In January 2023, Mikaela Shiffrin surpassed Vonn’s record, now boasting 99 total wins—more than any Alpine ski racer in history. Currently, Shiffrin is sidelined due to an injury sustained during a recent giant slalom event in Vermont, while the next round of World Cup races is set to take place next week in Beaver Creek, Colorado. There is no specified timeline for Vonn’s anticipated return to competitive racing.
Vonn’s last competition occurred in February 2019, where she secured a third-place finish in a downhill event at the world championships in Sweden. She retired while still performing exceptionally well, albeit after suffering a series of serious injuries—broken limbs, concussions, and torn ligaments ultimately compelled her to step back from the sport. After undergoing partial knee replacement surgery last April, Vonn determined that she was in good enough shape to attempt a comeback.
Ligety praised her decision, saying, “It’s beyond my risk appetite, but it will be exciting to watch.” He explained that she left while at the peak of her prowess, having faced the setback of her knee injury and feeling like her aspiration to surpass Stenmark’s record had been cut short. Ligety expressed understanding of Vonn’s motivation to return, acknowledging her youth and newfound health. He firmly believes she stands a good chance of success.
The atmosphere surrounding Vonn at the base of the slope was palpable. She arrived with numerous Head skis ready for trial. After completing at least three runs, she would regroup with her team, hydrate, and ascend the lift once more. Fellow American skier Keely Cashman noted, “She’s still super-fast. She’s been really helpful, offering guidance on whatever we need. We’re all thrilled to have her back.”
Sophie Goldschmidt, CEO of U.S. Ski and Snowboard, emphasized Vonn’s remarkable mental resilience and positive attitude. “To be able to come back time and again is truly impressive. We’re excited to have her back with the team. Her achievements speak volumes; she is one of the most celebrated athletes in U.S. history and has had a phenomenal ski racing career. It’s commendable that she feels fit and strong enough to want to pursue skiing again, and I’m eager to see what she can accomplish.”
