…how remarkable Lindsey Vonn’s Olympic comeback actually was at the age of 40. Just this past weekend, she was second in a World Cup super-G! Notably, this accomplishment was her first podium finish since March of 2018. That year, she placed third in a super-G race in Are, Sweden. Vonn’s victory at the World Cup finals in Sun Valley, Idaho capped a remarkable comeback. She proved that incredible talent in her epic run on the difficult Challenger course. Even after starting with a five point deficit going into Sunday’s race, Vonn proved that her greatness and fight is still very much alive.
The experienced Alpine ski racer came out of retirement this season, following a partial knee replacement. Her remarkable performance in Sun Valley was testimony to her fierce determination. She became the oldest female Alpine ski racer to reach a World Cup podium, surpassing the previous record by six years. Vonn crossed the finish line in a blazing one minute, 13.64 seconds. Her final run moved her just narrowly ahead of Lara Gut-Behrami, picking up 1.29 seconds on her.
Vonn was emotional after the race.
“It’s been a rough season of people saying that I can’t, that I’m too old, that I’m not good enough anymore. I think I proved everyone wrong.”
This performance was Vonn’s 138th career World Cup podium and came in her 408th career World Cup start. She hoped to race for Team USA at the future Winter Olympics. This thirst for adventure drove her return to the slopes in a comeback season before she permanently hung up the gates for good. Vonn has won a total of three Olympic medals over the course of her tremendous career.
After the race, Vonn spoke candidly about her experiences.
“As much as I love skiing, it’s been a hard road.”
Vonn’s story, her comeback, is the ultimate tribute to her skill, devotion, love for the game, and never give up attitude. Her incredible resolve in the face of debilitating physical and personal obstacles remains an inspiration long after her death.