Skiing icon Lindsey Vonn provided an update on her health status via social media following her third surgery post a significant crash that shattered her Olympic aspirations at Milan-Cortina. The 41-year-old American athlete sustained a leg injury at the Milan Cortina Games, leading to her immediate hospitalization after a severe accident, shortly after tearing her ACL.
During the women’s downhill event, Vonn, representing Team USA, collided with a gate, losing control and crashing down the slope merely 13 seconds into her run. Following the incident, she received prompt on-site medical attention before being airlifted to a nearby medical facility for further care.
In a recent Instagram post on Wednesday evening, Vonn shared, “I underwent my third surgery today, and it was successful. Success now holds a different significance compared to a few days ago. Progress is being made, albeit gradually, and I am optimistic about my recovery. Grateful for the exceptional medical team, as well as the unwavering support from friends, family, and the global community.”
Acknowledging her fellow athletes, Vonn extended congratulations to her teammates and all Team USA competitors who continue to inspire and motivate her during this challenging period.
It was later confirmed that Vonn would require multiple surgeries to address her leg injury, with the recent procedure marking her third surgical intervention. Although a prolonged rehabilitation process lies ahead, there remains a possibility for the skier to return to the slopes within a year.
Federica Brignone, another skier who encountered severe leg fractures and a torn ACL at the 2025 Italian Championships, made a remarkable comeback in just 10 months, competing against Vonn on Cortina’s Olympia piste.
Andrea Panzeri, the head of the Medical Commission of the Italian Winter Sports Federation, highlighted the complexity of Vonn’s fracture, emphasizing that despite age considerations, it could potentially impact her athletic career. However, citing Brignone’s successful recovery from a similar injury, Panzeri acknowledged the possibility of Vonn’s return to competitive skiing.
Orthopedic surgeon Filippo Pierfrancesco Calanna from Milan’s Gaetano Pini Orthopaedic and Trauma Centre noted that while age might influence the pace of recovery, Vonn’s exceptional physical attributes could play a crucial role. Calanna emphasized the significance of motivation and attitude in the recovery process, cautioning about potential early arthritis development affecting joint function and causing discomfort.
Despite Vonn’s prior leg injuries and knee implant, which may influence her recovery timeline, her determination and medical support remain pivotal in her journey back to competitive skiing.