Comeback already in St. Moritz?
A skiing superstar may return to the slopes
ASSOCIATED PRESS
Lindsey Vonn receives a wild card for the World Cup in St. Moritz. (ARCHIVE IMAGE)
Published: November 20, 2024 3:56 pm
Lindsey Vonn could make her World Cup comeback at the races in St. Moritz shortly before Christmas. The US Ski Association has applied for a wild card for the 40-year-old for the Super-G races on December 21st and 22nd.
Thanks to a wild card, skiing superstar Lindsey Vonn could return to the World Cup in St.Moritz. This was confirmed by the FIS world association at the request of SRF. After Marcel Hirscher, Vonn would be the second athlete to come back after a break of several years.
Vonn in Beaver Creek already on the slopes
Like her male colleague, she announced that she had retired five years ago and could benefit from the new card that has now been introduced. Until her World Cup comeback, Vonn will compete in small FIT races in North America. On the one hand, get the right needed to start in the World Cup. On the other hand, her artificial knee is being subjected to its first racing tests. At the World Cup speed opener in Beaver Creek (December 14 and 15), the four-time World Cup overall winner, eight-time downhill shot winner and 2010 Olympic champion aims to start as the front-runner.
Some former stars are critical of Vonn’s comeback. Franz Klemm, for example, spoke of “a full hand” to the American, her former rival Michaela Dorfmeister told the NÖN recently: “She should see a psychologist. Her desire for recognition is probably huge.” Former Swiss ski racer Sonja Nef told Blick: “No surgeon in the world would say what Lindsey is doing is smart.”
(What: APA)
Available on November 21, 2024 at 08:26
How might Lindsey Vonn’s return to skiing influence the perception of winter sports among younger athletes?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Skiing Expert
Editor: Welcome, and thank you for joining us today to discuss an exciting development in the skiing world. Lindsey Vonn may be making her comeback at the World Cup in St. Moritz, just in time for Christmas! What can you tell us about this?
Expert: Thank you for having me! Yes, Lindsey Vonn’s potential return is a thrilling prospect for both fans and the sport itself. Having applied for a wild card from the US Ski Association, Vonn, now 40, could compete in the Super-G races on December 21st and 22nd. It’s a remarkable moment, especially considering her incredible legacy in skiing.
Editor: It certainly is! Vonn is such a well-known name in winter sports. What impact do you think her return could have on the event itself?
Expert: Lindsey is not only a phenomenal athlete but also a significant draw for audiences. Her return could boost viewership and bring attention back to the sport, particularly around the holiday season when many families engage with winter sports. Fans are eager to see how she performs after her lengthy absence from competitive skiing.
Editor: Absolutely! It feels like the buzz surrounding her comeback could reignite interest in skiing. Could you share how Vonn has prepared for this comeback after her retirement?
Expert: Vonn has been vocal about her rigorous training regimen leading up to this potential return. She’s had to balance physical preparation with mental strategies, as competing at such a high level after some time off poses various challenges. She’s likely been focusing on building her endurance, technical skills, and adapting to any changes in the competitive landscape since her retirement.
Editor: That’s insightful! With her experience, do you think she can still compete effectively at this level?
Expert: Given her extensive experience and skill set, I believe she has a solid chance of competing effectively, especially in the Super-G. The wild card is a testament to the confidence the US Ski Association has in her abilities. However, it’ll definitely take some adjustments, and she will have to shake off any rust that accumulated during her time away from competitive skiing.
Editor: Very true—there’s definitely a lot at stake. What does this mean for the younger athletes in the skiing community?
Expert: Vonn’s comeback could be a double-edged sword for younger athletes. On one hand, they can learn from her vast experience and expertise. On the other hand, there’s an element of pressure that comes with competing against a legend. It will be interesting to see how this dynamic unfolds; younger athletes might find additional motivation to elevate their performance and learn from the best.
Editor: That’s a great point. considering the timing of her potential comeback just before Christmas, do you think this could have any special significance for her and her supporters?
Expert: Most definitely! Christmas often signifies new beginnings and hope, which could resonate deeply with Vonn personally. For her fans, witnessing her return during this festive time adds an extra layer of excitement and joy, reminiscent of past triumphs. It’s a unique narrative that can potentially inspire many who follow her journey.
Editor: Thank you for your insights! We can all agree that if Lindsey Vonn does make it back to the slopes in St. Moritz, it will be a moment worth celebrating.
Expert: Thank you for having me! It’s definitely a thrilling time for skiing fans everywhere. Let’s keep our fingers crossed for a successful comeback!