Lindsey Vonn successfully completed her first training run in Cortina d'Ampezzo, marking a significant milestone in her comeback journey.
The American ski legend navigated the challenging Cortina course with determination, despite skiing with a knee brace following her recent ACL injury. Racing with bib number 10, Vonn demonstrated the technical prowess that made her a dominant force on these very slopes throughout her career.
The training run showcased both Vonn's resilience and the physical challenges she continues to face. Commentary noted her smooth execution through the turns and strength on the technical sections, though she experienced some difficulty with timing on the jumps, landing late and low at certain points on the course.
Cortina d'Ampezzo: Vonn's House of Success
Vonn's return to Cortina carries special significance given her remarkable history at the venue. The 40-year-old has claimed an impressive 12 victories on these slopes, including six downhill wins that established her as one of the greatest speed specialists in Alpine Skiing history.
Her familiarity with the track was evident during the training session, as she navigated the technical sections with confidence despite the physical limitations imposed by her knee brace. The ACL tear that has required the additional support represents just the latest challenge in a career marked by both triumph and injury battles.
Milano Cortina 2026 Preparation Begins
This training run represents a crucial step in Vonn's preparation for the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. The venue will host Alpine skiing events, making these training sessions invaluable for athletes looking to compete at the highest level.
Fellow American skier Breezy Johnson was on hand to congratulate Vonn at the finish line, highlighting the supportive atmosphere within the U.S. ski team as they prepare for the upcoming Olympic cycle. The successful completion of the course, despite the hard landing on the final jump, represents a significant psychological and physical milestone for Vonn's comeback efforts.
