The veteran skier had a titanium prosthesis placed in her right knee during her time away from competitive skiing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn states she will be "perfectly prepared" for the upcoming Winter Olympics, on the back of claiming a place on the rostrum for the fourth instance in her last five World Cup races.
The 41-year-old, who last week set a record by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This was her 142nd career World Cup top-three result.
Racing in the French Alps resort for the first time in almost a decade, Vonn crossed the line in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was 0.36 seconds behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing the runner-up spot.
"I was slightly lacking enough direction on the initial jump," the skier commented. "From that point on, I performed strongly. I'm pleased with my skiing today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This result was her second podium at Val d'Isere during the event, having also taken third in the downhill on Saturday.
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 due to ongoing knee problems. However, she made a stunning return in December 2024 after a partial knee replacement.
With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's performances are timely.
She already possesses one gold and two bronze medals from previous Games and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the 2026 Games.
"In Cortina, I will be where I need to be," the athlete confirmed.
In addition to her Olympic ambitions, Vonn is also hoping to add to the four overall crystal globes she has accumulated over a career spanning two decades.
She currently holds a substantial lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is sitting in fifth place in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup circuit includes a nine more events scheduled before the season finals in Kvitfjell, Norway on 21 March 2026.
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