Dec 21, 2024, 3:19 PM
Dec 20, 2024, 12:00 AM

Lindsey Vonn returns to World Cup racing after retirement

Highlights
  • Lindsey Vonn, after almost six years of absence due to injuries, marked her comeback in the World Cup circuit with a 14th place finish.
  • She faced tough weather conditions in St. Moritz, which led to the cancellation of her second race.
  • Her successful return exemplifies her resilience and determination to be back in competitive skiing.
Story

In St. Moritz, Switzerland, Lindsey Vonn made her highly anticipated return to World Cup skiing on Saturday, completing her first race in nearly six years. At the age of 40, Vonn secured a commendable 14th place finish in the super-G event, crossing the line 1.18 seconds behind the winner, Cornelia Huetter. This race was a crucial milestone for Vonn as she had to retire in 2019 due to health issues stemming from multiple knee injuries. Following successful knee replacement surgery earlier this year, Vonn felt a renewed sense of strength and purpose, making her decision to comeback. The backdrop of Vonn's return is particularly significant. She previously held the record for the most World Cup wins by a female skier, amassing 82 victories before her retirement. This feat was surpassed in January 2023 by fellow American skier Mikaela Shiffrin, who currently holds an impressive 99 wins. Despite the evolving landscape of competitive skiing, Vonn’s return highlights her lasting legacy and ability to inspire younger athletes. On Sunday, Vonn aimed to continue her comeback journey with another super-G race scheduled for the same venue. Moreover, the conditions during her race were challenging, with many athletes reporting tough visibility and strong winds. Vonn herself took a conservative approach, focusing on maintaining control and avoiding risk, especially considering her recent surgery and recovery. This tactical mindset underscored her determination to finish the race successfully, marking it as a significant step in her comeback journey. Lindsey Vonn's career has been closely followed and has inspired many across the globe. Her ability to return at this age after overcoming considerable obstacles speaks volumes about her resilience. Looking forward, Vonn aims to regain her competitive edge and continue participating in upcoming races as she seeks to further establish her presence in the sport once again.

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