American and skiing legend Lindsey Vonn confirmed on friday that she will make her World Cup return at the Saint-Moritz (Switzerland) stage on December 21 and 22, at the age of 40 and after almost six years of retirement. “She’s back,” Red Bull, the skier’s sponsor, wrote on Instagram, posting a video in which we see the former world number 1 saying with a smile: “it truly seems that St. moritz is a nice place in this period of year.”
Lindsey Vonn,former record holder of victories in the Women’s World Cup with 82 successes,has accepted the crazy challenge of returning to the highest level,almost six years after retiring at the World Cup in Are (Sweden) in February 2019. Victim of numerous injuries during her career, Vonn underwent surgery in the spring to replace part of her right knee, the victim of tricompartmental degeneration, with a titanium prosthesis.
Before being able to return to the world circuit – thanks to new regulations that allow former skiing glories to return to the World Cup under advantageous conditions – Vonn had to take part in the secondary circuit races at the beginning of December.
Last week she competed in two super-Gs at Copper Mountain (United States) and finished 19th and 24th, each time just over two seconds behind the winner. “It was a success. Some say I was slow, but I think it was amazing,” she said on Instagram on Wednesday. Before returning to racing in Switzerland, the American will be present this weekend at the World Cup in beaver Creek (United States), where a downhill and a super-G will take place.
How does Lindsey Vonn’s return to competition influence younger athletes in the skiing community?
Interview with Skiing Expert: Lindsey Vonn’s Comeback and Its Impact on the Skiing World
Interviewer (Time.news Editor): Welcome! Today, we’re diving into the thrilling return of skiing legend Lindsey Vonn, who has confirmed her comeback at the World Cup in Saint-Moritz this December. Joining us is skiing expert dr. amanda Lawson, who has been following vonn’s career closely. Thank you for being here, Dr.Lawson.
Dr. Amanda Lawson: Thanks for having me! it’s an exciting time for skiing fans with Lindsey back on the circuit.
Editor: Absolutely! Lindsey Vonn’s return at the age of 40, after almost six years of retirement, is both surprising and inspiring. What do you think motivated her to make this decision now?
Dr. Lawson: Lindsey has always had an incredible passion for skiing and a competitive spirit. After enduring numerous injuries throughout her career, which culminated in knee surgery—where she received a titanium prosthesis—it’s remarkable to see her embracing this challenge. I think the new regulations allowing former athletes to compete under favorable conditions also played a role in her decision to make a comeback.
Editor: Speaking of her surgeries and injuries, how important are these obstacles in the skiing world, especially for someone like Vonn who has had a storied career?
Dr. Lawson: Injuries are unfortunately common in skiing due to the sport’s high speeds and physical demands. Vonn’s history of injuries could have deterred her from returning, but her resilience and determination shine through. Athletes frequently enough face the risk of reinjury or declining performance levels, yet many find motivation in personal goals and the drive to reclaim their former glory.
Editor: Last week, she competed in two super-G races at Copper Mountain, finishing 19th and 24th. She called these results a “success.” What are your thoughts on her performance?
Dr. Lawson: From a comeback outlook, stopping the clock just over two seconds behind the winner is commendable, especially considering the circumstances. For Vonn, these races serve as an critically important gauge for her progress. It’s not just about placement; it’s about regaining confidence and adapting back to competitive skiing.Her positive attitude shows a focus on personal growth rather than just the scoreboard.
Editor: With her World Cup return set for December 21 and 22 at Saint-Moritz, what does this mean for the skiing community and fans alike?
Dr. Lawson: Lindsey Vonn’s return is monumental for both the skiing community and her fans. It reaffirms the idea that age is just a number and that determination can lead to comebacks at any stage in an athlete’s career. Her presence at prestigious events like the World Cup stirs excitement and can inspire younger athletes to persist through their challenges. It also brings fantastic media attention, which is crucial for the growth of the sport.
Editor: As we anticipate her performance in St. Moritz, do you have any practical advice for aspiring skiers looking to follow in Vonn’s footsteps?
Dr. Lawson: Absolutely! First, aspiring skiers should focus on strengthening their knees and improving overall fitness, as readiness is key to avoiding injuries. Secondly, they should participate in competitive events, no matter the level, to gain the experiance Lindsey has. maintaining a positive mindset and setting personal goals, much like Vonn has done, can lead to significant progress—both on and off the slopes.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Lawson, for your insights into Lindsey Vonn’s return to skiing.It’s exhilarating to see how her story continues to unfold and influence the sport!
dr. Lawson: It was my pleasure! Lindsey’s journey is truly inspiring, and I look forward to watching her compete again.
Editor: For our readers, stay tuned for more updates on Lindsey Vonn’s World Cup return and other exciting developments in the skiing world.