Context:

Lindsey Vonn, the renowned Alpine skier, made a historic comeback by securing a second-place finish in a super-G race in Idaho, becoming the oldest female skier to podium at a World Cup race. Her return to competitive skiing was marked by an emotional farewell following her initial retirement in 2019, which was reversed after a partial knee replacement. This comeback has reignited her passion for skiing, with her sights set on participating in the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina. Vonn shared her experiences during a CNN panel at the Laureus World Sports Awards, where she described the immense challenges she faced in returning to elite competition. Her journey back to the podium has been one of the most demanding phases of her illustrious career, underscoring her resilience and determination.

Dive Deeper:

• Lindsey Vonn made a significant comeback by finishing second in a super-G race in Idaho, which made her the oldest female Alpine skier to podium at a World Cup event by six years.

• Initially retiring in 2019, Vonn returned to competitive skiing after undergoing a partial knee replacement, which revitalized her ability to compete at a high level.

• Her recent achievement has revived her ambitions, with a particular focus on competing in the Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina scheduled for 2026.

• At the Laureus World Sports Awards, Vonn, alongside other Olympians, discussed with CNN the intense challenges she faced during her comeback, marking it as one of the most difficult periods in her skiing career.

• Vonn's journey back to the podium has been emotionally charged, highlighting her resilience and determination to overcome physical and mental obstacles to return to the sport she loves.

• Her presence at the CNN panel alongside other notable athletes underscores her status as a respected figure in the sporting community.

• Vonn's story is a testament to her dedication and passion for skiing, inspiring many with her journey from retirement to achieving new milestones in her career.