Team USA's Lindsey Vonn remains on track to ski in the 2026 Winter Olympics, despite tearing the ACL in her left knee, she told reporters Tuesday.
Feb. 3 (UPI) -- Team USA's Lindsey Vonn remains on track to ski in the 2026 Winter Olympics, despite tearing the ACL in her left knee, she told reporters Tuesday.
Vonn sustained the knee injury and was airlifted from a World Cup competition Friday in Crans-Montana, Switzerland. She said later that day that her "Olympic dream is not over."
The 2020 gold medalist echoed that sentiment Tuesday in Cortina D'Ampezzo, Italy.
"Considering how my knee feels, I feel stable," Vonn said. "I feel strong. My knee is not swollen. With the help of a knee brace, I am confident I can compete on Sunday."
Vonn said examinations revealed bone bruising and meniscal damage, in addition to a "completely ruptured" ACL.
She continues to consult doctors and participated in extensive physical therapy and training since her crash.
She also went skiing Tuesday.
The 41-year-old tempered her Olympic expectations due to her health. She remains on track to become the oldest woman in history to compete in the Olympics in downhill skiing.
"This is not obviously what I had hoped for," Vonn said. "I'd been working really hard to come into these Games in a much different position.
"I know what my chances were before the crash. I know my chances aren't the same as it stands today. But I know there is still a chance. As long as there is a chance, I will try."
Vonn, who was one of three skiers to crash in Friday's competition, the final event before the Winter Olympics, is among nearly 100 skiers and snowboarders who are to compete for Team USA.
The three-time Olympic medalist plans to ski in the women's downhill, super-G and team combined event.
The first training session for the women's downhill will be Thursday at the Tofane Alpine Skiing Center. The women's downhill final will be Sunday at the same facility in Cortina d'Ampezzo.
Category: General Sports
