Lindsey Vonn, the iconic skier, makes an unexpected return to competition at 40, facing criticism yet maintaining confidence in her abilities. Slower in training compared to top competitors, she reflects on her strategy for the upcoming Super-G race. Despite a six-year hiatus and knee surgery, Vonn remains hopeful for podium finishes, emphasizing her lack of pressure and desire to enjoy the experience. She also addresses past criticism, highlighting gender bias, while expressing disappointment over Mikaela Shiffrin’s absence from their anticipated collaboration.
Lindsey Vonn’s Unexpected Comeback at the World Championship
Lindsey Vonn, the legendary skier, did not anticipate participating in the World Championship, and at 40 years old, she is keen on avoiding pressure just after her return to the snow. Despite this, she stands firm against the criticism she has received.
Vonn’s Journey and Perspective
As Vonn navigates the slopes, she appears slightly bewildered. During the second downhill training session at the World Championship in Saalbach-Hinterglemm, her speed is noticeably slower compared to the frontrunners—a stark contrast to her own high expectations. The remarkable athlete is clearly contemplating her strategy for the upcoming Super-G race scheduled for Thursday at 11:30 AM.
Earlier this week, Vonn was in high spirits, engaging with numerous reporters and camera crews about her unexpected return. “I am already satisfied,” she said with a radiant smile, adorned with her black sponsor hat featuring two charming pom-poms. “This is the icing on the cake or the cherry on top.”
Vonn’s presence at this pinnacle event is monumental; her comeback is unparalleled in skiing history. Having been away from competitive sports for nearly six years and undergoing knee surgery with a partial prosthesis in early 2024, the question arises: Can she truly contend for podium positions? “I am competitive and believe that I can fight for a medal,” asserted Vonn before the training sessions.
This unwavering confidence is a hallmark of Vonn’s career, propelling her to achieve record-breaking feats. Coupled with her exceptional instincts for snow and speed, she remains optimistic. “I haven’t forgotten my skills,” she remarked. “It’s like riding a bike. You just remember how to do it, and I know exactly what it takes to win.”
Vonn clarifies that her statements are not meant to be confrontational, and she feels no pressure. “I don’t have to prove anything to anyone,” she explained. “Of course, I want to be on the podium. But if I finish tenth, that would be fine too.” Despite her self-assurance, Vonn acknowledges the challenges ahead, especially with her eyes set on the Olympic Games next year in Cortina d’Ampezzo, a venue she holds dear. “There will be expectations then. But not here yet,” she emphasized.
Initially, Vonn had no plans to compete in Saalbach; she considered being there as a pace-setter or for television coverage. However, after impressing everyone with her fourth and sixth-place finishes at the World Cups earlier in January, she found herself on the U.S. World Championship team—20 years after her debut in Santa Caterina in 2005, when many of her rivals were still children.
Vonn’s approach to her World Championship preparation has been laid-back. Recently, she took a short trip back to the USA, focusing on gym training and celebrating a significant milestone with one of her dogs completing chemotherapy. “It was quite good to have a little break mentally and physically,” she reflected, sharing her experience as a former overall World Cup winner, World Champion, and Olympic Champion.
Her cheerful demeanor dimmed briefly when discussing the harsh criticism she faced from former racers last autumn. Austrian ski icon Franz Klammer had labeled her a “full shot” and suggested she seek psychological help. “I didn’t deserve that,” Vonn expressed, attributing it to gender bias.
Vonn recalled the case of Austrian superstar Marcel Hirscher, who also made a comeback after a long hiatus. “No one asked Marcel such questions. No one asked if his life outside of skiing was fulfilled or if he needed a therapist. Such things only came my way,” Vonn lamented, describing it as “pretty messed up.”
For Vonn, proving the critics wrong is part of her motivation. She had hoped to showcase her talent alongside Mikaela Shiffrin in the team combination event, a unique collaboration of two of the most successful female racers in World Cup history. Unfortunately, Shiffrin will not compete due to training setbacks following her own injury break.