U.S. skiing legend Lindsey Vonn, 41, is still on the road to full recovery after the devastating crash at the Milan‑Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. While the series of surgeries that saved her left leg from amputation have been successful, Vonn confirmed she still needs anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction before she can consider returning to competition.
Olympic crash and subsequent injuries
Vonn entered the women’s downhill on Feb. 8 with a torn ACL sustained during a World Cup race in Switzerland on Jan. 30. Determined to compete, she launched down the course only 13 seconds into her run before losing control and crashing. The impact caused a complex fracture of her left tibia, prompting five separate operations to stabilize the bone.
“I still have another surgery, so I’m trying to get as strong as possible,” Vonn told TNT Sports during an interview at the U.S. Open tennis tournament. “And once I get my ACL, then I’ll have another long road ahead of me. But for now, I feel great, and I’m very thankful for that.”
Plans for ACL repair
Vonn hopes to schedule the ACL reconstruction for November, though she cautioned that the exact timing will depend on winter conditions and her overall health. She estimates a nine‑month rehabilitation period after the procedure before she could be fully cleared for high‑speed skiing.
“I’m hoping that I can have the (ACL) surgery in November, but it’ll be in the winter sometime, and then it’ll be another nine months until I’m fully recovered from that, so I can’t really look beyond that,” she said. “I don’t really know what the future holds, but like I said, I’m just thankful for where I am right now.”
Uncertain future in competitive skiing
The four‑time World Cup season champion and 2010 Olympic downhill gold medalist has repeatedly expressed uncertainty about a possible comeback. In an April interview with the Associated Press, Vonn admitted she is not emotionally ready to decide whether she will retire or attempt another return to the World Cup circuit.
“I may retire. I may never race again and that would be completely fine,” Vonn told the AP. “But I’m not in a position emotionally to make that decision at this point.”
What the recovery means for fans and the sport
Vonn’s situation highlights the physical risks elite skiers face, especially when competing with pre‑existing injuries. Her perseverance has been praised by fellow athletes and fans who admire her determination to fight through adversity while prioritizing long‑term health.
As Vonn works toward her ACL repair, the skiing community will watch closely to see whether she ultimately returns to the World Cup circuit or steps away from competition permanently. Regardless of the outcome, her legacy as one of America’s most successful alpine racers remains secure.
Looking ahead
For now, Vonn’s focus remains on strengthening her body, completing the upcoming ACL surgery, and navigating the lengthy rehabilitation process. Her candid reflections on the uncertainty of her future serve as a reminder that even the most decorated athletes must confront the limits of their bodies.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
